Los Angeles Clippers Team Report - March 4

(Basketball News) - The Los Angeles Clippers put up a good fight on Wednesday against the Eastern Conference-leading Indiana Pacers, but eventually dropped a 101-94 decision at the Staples Center.

Elton Brand scored a team-high 24 points on 9-of-17 shooting and Quentin Richardson contributed 23 points for the Clippers, who have dropped three straight and five straight overall to the Pacers.

The fourth quarter went back and forth with the lead changing hands on several occasions. Marko Jaric’s layup gave the Clippers an 87-85 edge with 25.8 seconds left in regulation. An Artest jumper in the lane knotted the game with 10.9 seconds remaining in the contest.

Eddie House threw up a desperation trey as time expired, but the shot fell well short of the rim forcing overtime.

The Pacers scored five quick points in the extra session, gaining a 92-87 advantage. The Clippers proved tough as a Jaric basket followed by a Corey Maggette trey from the top of the key, tied the game at 92-92 with 2:11 left.

However, Reggie Miller proved he is still clutch, draining a long three- pointer as the shot clock expired, giving Indiana a 95-92 edge with 1:49 remaining. Jermaine O’Neal’s jumper pushed the lead to 97-92. The Clippers turned the ball over on the inbound pass, all but ending any comeback attempt.

Jamal Tinsley then sealed the contest with two free throws.

The Clippers, who have dropped two of their last seven at home, will return to action on Saturday against Memphis.