Quebec’s Bennedict Mathurin, who was selected sixth overall in the recent NBA draft, excelled in his first preseason game with the Indianapolis Pacers on Wednesday.
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The 20-year-old helped his team defeat the Hornets 122-97 in Charlotte.
Mathurin did not start that game, but still spent 19 minutes and 18 seconds on the ground, collecting 15 points. Only Aaron Nesmith, author of 16 points, was ahead of him alongside the Pacers in this chapter.
The Montreal native added a rebound and an assist to his tally. He hit 50% of his shots but was unsuccessful on four attempts from downtown. He also hit his target with his five free throws.
The Pacers will play three more exhibition games before opening the regular season at home against the Washington Wizards on Oct. 19.