The Toronto Raptors used a monster night from DeMar DeRozan to knock off the Indiana Pacers 89-84 in Game 7, advancing them to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
It marks the first time the Raptors have won a playoff series since 2001, and it's the first time they've won a best-of-7 series in franchise history. It's also the first time the Raptors have ever won a Game 7.
Toronto trailed for a total of one minute in this game, essentially controlling it from start to finish. They led 50-44 at halftime, but it was a 27-18 run at the start of the third quarter that really gave the Raptors a sizable advantage.
However, Indiana made a game of it late with a 17-4 to cut the deficit to three with less than a minute to play, yet DeRozan sealed the game with a pair of free throws with 6.5 seconds to play
DeRozan finished with a game-high 30 points, and center Jonas Valanciunas contributed with 10 points and 12 rebounds. Rookie Norman Powell also provided a big spark off the bench with 13 points.
Paul George scored 26 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the Pacers, while George Hill chipped in 19 points.
Toronto will face the Miami Heat in the second round.
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