Teams don't achieve greatness in the NBA without being able to defend their home court.

Two seasons ago, the Indiana Pacers tied the Los Angeles Lakers with a league-best 36-5 record at home. The NBA Finals matchup that season: Pacers vs. Lakers.

That's why the Pacers are encouraged by their 4-0 start at Conseco Fieldhouse, which includes wins over Orlando, Sacramento, New York and Portland.

"We're trying to go 41-0 in our building," forward Al Harrington said with his typical ebullience.

The Pacers went 26-15 at the fieldhouse last season, their worst home record since 1991-92. Indiana also lost both home playoff games to Philadelphia.

"If you can't protect your home floor, how are you going to win in the playoffs?" asked swingman Jalen Rose. "Teams are going to come into your building and believe they can beat you."

The Pacers have won their past three home games by overcoming double-digit deficits.

"The home crowd has a lot to do with it," center Jeff Foster said. "We've been down by 10 or more, but we've been able to feed off the crowd and get back in the games."

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