AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Once Reggie Miller turned his back to a vanquished opponent at midcourt and dribbled out the game's final seconds, a trip that began with disappointment ended in jubilation Sunday for the Indiana Pacers.

Not only did the Pacers avoid a winless three-game trip with an 89-84 victory over the Detroit Pistons, they also sent a message to the Central Division leaders.