Pacers' Stephenson Has Ridiculous Game

Lance Stephenson is making his case to stay in the NBA. In Wednesday night's contest against the Brooklyn Nets, he became the first player in NBA history to record 20 points off the bench in just the first quarter. His night didn't stop there, either, as he had 30 points, three rebounds and five assists in 32 total minutes played. 

Lance Stephenson just became the first player in NBA history to score 20pts off the bench in the 1st Quarter.

— Pat Boylan (@PatBoylanPacers) January 6, 2022

Stephenson just signed a 10-day contract with the Pacers at the start of 2022. He returned to the NBA for the first time since the 2018-19 season earlier this year on a 10-day deal with the Atlanta Hawks. After a performance like this one, Indiana will have to contemplate their next move with the 31-year-old. In three games with the Pacers now, he is averaging 13.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. That's far better than they could have expected.

Stephenson's fantastic game and long overall history with the Pacers could elect them to sign him to another contract from here. Keep in mind, before rejoining the team, he played six seasons over two previous stints with the Pacers.

Yet, even if the Pacers decide not to sign the veteran again, a game like this one deserves a ton of praise. He is proving that he is meant to be in the NBA.

Photo Credit: © Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports