sevendayweekender – The Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. The win gives Indiana a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven series. Playing at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Pacers overcame a five-point deficit entering the final quarter. Tyrese Haliburton led the charge with an all-around performance, while the Pacers’ bench played a crucial role in the victory.
Indiana had lost Game 2 by 16 points, but returned home with renewed focus and energy. They have not dropped consecutive games since March, a streak that remains alive. The Pacers now stand two wins away from their first championship since joining the NBA in 1976.
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Haliburton Leads with All-Around Game and Highlights Team Effort
Tyrese Haliburton recorded 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds in a performance that energized the home crowd. He was instrumental in organizing the offense, especially in the fourth quarter. Haliburton credited the team’s depth for the win, praising the collective effort.
“So many different guys chipped in,” he said after the game. “Ben Mathurin was amazing off the bench. We just had guys make plays after plays.” Haliburton consistently set up teammates for open looks and crashed the boards when needed. His leadership helped Indiana dominate the final stretch of the game.
Bennedict Mathurin Sparks Pacers Off the Bench with 27 Points
Bennedict Mathurin played a game-changing role off the bench, scoring 27 points and igniting the crowd with his aggression. He attacked the rim with confidence, drawing fouls and converting tough layups. His presence kept the Thunder defense off balance throughout the night.
“The main thing is you have to be resilient,” Mathurin said postgame. “You have to be the aggressor in order to win games.” Indiana’s bench outscored Oklahoma City’s by 49-18, a major factor in the outcome. Mathurin’s energy was contagious, helping Indiana surge past Oklahoma City late in the game.
Thunder Struggle with Turnovers and Fourth Quarter Collapse
Despite holding a narrow lead after three quarters, the Thunder faltered in the final period. They committed 19 turnovers, which led to 21 points for the Pacers. Oklahoma City also struggled to contain Indiana’s transition offense and bench scoring.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA’s MVP, finished with 24 points but scored only three in the fourth quarter. Jalen Williams added 26 points, and Chet Holmgren contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds. However, their efforts were overshadowed by critical mistakes down the stretch.
“In the fourth quarter I just thought they really outplayed us on both ends,” said Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. The Thunder must now regroup and address their issues ahead of Game 4.
Game 4 Set for Friday as Pacers Look to Extend Their Lead
The Pacers will aim to build on their momentum in Game 4, scheduled for Friday night in Indianapolis. A win would give Indiana a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them on the brink of an NBA title.
Oklahoma City, meanwhile, will try to bounce back and even the series before returning home. The Thunder will need more production from their stars in clutch moments and must reduce their turnovers to compete.
Tipoff is set for 8:30 p.m. local time (01:30 BST on Saturday), with the home crowd expected to play a key role once again.
