Bennedict Mathurin's Rise: From Tragedy to NBA Finals Heroics

The Indiana Pacers are riding high after taking a 2-1 lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Finals. Fueling their victory in Game 3 was a spectacular performance from guard Bennedict Mathurin.

Mathurin, coming off the bench, poured in a game-high 27 points in the Pacers' 116-107 triumph at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. His efficient scoring included 9-of-12 shooting from the field, 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and 7-of-8 from the free throw line.

"So many guys stepped up, but Ben Mathurin was incredible off the bench," Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton praised after the game. "Our entire bench was amazing tonight."

While not yet a mainstream name, Mathurin's impactful postseason play is quickly making him one to watch. The 22-year-old is proving to be a vital piece of the Pacers' championship pursuit.

Bennedict Mathurin, born in Montreal, Quebec on June 19, 2002, is in his third NBA season as a shooting guard for the Indiana Pacers, proudly wearing jersey number 00. Basketball talent runs deep in his family. His sister, Jennifer, excelled at North Carolina State, and his brother, Dominique Jeune, harbored NBA aspirations. A tragic accident took Dominique's life at age 15, when Mathurin was only 12.

"He's my constant inspiration," Mathurin declared in 2022, dedicating his career to his late brother's memory. At 15, Mathurin pursued his basketball dreams at the NBA Academy Latin America in Mexico City, a prestigious development program for promising young players.

Prior to the NBA, Mathurin honed his skills at the University of Arizona for two seasons. As a freshman, he earned Pac-12 All-Freshman honors with averages of 10.8 points and 4.8 rebounds. Stepping into a starting role as a sophomore, Mathurin elevated his game to 17.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, earning him Pac-12 Player of the Year, First Team All Pac-12, and second team All-American accolades.

The Indiana Pacers selected Mathurin with the sixth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He immediately impressed, averaging 16.7 points and earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. He also set a Pacers rookie record for three-pointers made.

"Ben's game translates exceptionally well from college to the NBA," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle noted in 2022, recognizing his unique readiness for the professional level. A torn labrum unfortunately cut short Mathurin's second season.

During the 2024-25 regular season, Mathurin posted averages of 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds. Through the first three games of the NBA Finals, he's averaging 15.3 points.