Pacers Take 2-1 NBA Finals Lead Over Thunder

The Indiana Pacers showcased their renowned bounce-back DNA, delivering a commanding 116-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in a pivotal Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Securing this crucial win on their home court at Gainbridge Fieldhouse propels the Pacers to a 2-1 series advantage. This triumph also extends their league-leading streak to ten consecutive wins immediately following a loss this season – the NBA's longest such run, encompassing both the regular season and playoffs.

Facing a five-point deficit heading into the final period, the Pacers erupted with a decisive 32-18 fourth-quarter explosion, completely flipping the script and wresting control from the Thunder. Oklahoma City's self-inflicted wounds proved devastating, coughing up 19 turnovers and squandering opportunities at the charity stripe, converting only 23 of their 30 free throw attempts. Indiana's relentless defensive pressure, particularly aimed at containing Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, severely disrupted Oklahoma City's offensive flow when it mattered most.

Indiana's bench unit ignited the comeback, spearheaded by Bennedict Mathurin's explosive game-high 27 points. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton delivered a vital double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam chipped in a solid 21 points. Despite the defeat, Oklahoma City's core trio all delivered strong individual efforts: Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 26 points, Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 24, and Chet Holmgren added 20.

The pressure now mounts significantly for the Thunder as the series shifts to Game 4. Falling behind 3-1 would place them in a historically perilous position. Teams trailing 3-1 in NBA postseason history face overwhelming odds with a dismal 13-285 record. That challenge becomes nearly insurmountable in the NBA Finals itself, where teams are a staggering 1-37 when facing such a deficit. Protecting possessions and executing flawlessly under intense pressure are non-negotiable for Oklahoma City to avoid that fate.

NBA Finals Game 4: Can't-Miss Action

The battle for the Larry O'Brien Trophy continues Friday night in Indianapolis for Game 4. Tune in live on ABC at 8:30 PM Eastern Time.

Streaming options are available via Fubo (offering a free trial) and SlingTV, providing flexible viewing for fans eager to see if the Thunder can level the series on the road.

2025 NBA Finals Schedule (All Times Eastern):

• Game 1: Pacers 111, Thunder 110
• Game 2: Thunder 123, Pacers 107
• Game 3: Pacers 116, Thunder 107
• Game 4: Fri, June 13 - Thunder at Pacers | ABC | 8:30 PM
• Game 5: Mon, June 16 - Pacers at Thunder | ABC | 8:30 PM (If Necessary)
• Game 6: Thu, June 19 - Thunder at Pacers | ABC | 8:30 PM (If Necessary)
• Game 7: Sun, June 22 - Pacers at Thunder | ABC | 8:00 PM (If Necessary)

Friday night promises a high-stakes showdown at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Thunder fight desperately to avoid the brink of elimination, while the Pacers aim to move within a single victory of hoisting the championship trophy. Don't miss a moment of the intensity.