Fri. Jun 13th, 2025

Indiana Pacers Defeat Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 to Take NBA Finals Series Lead

The Indiana Pacers claimed a crucial 116-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, securing their first home victory in the championship round in 25 years. With this triumph at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Pacers now lead the best-of-seven series 2-1, setting up a pivotal Game 4 in Indianapolis this Friday.

Tyrese Haliburton Leads by Example in Game 3 Victory

All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton was instrumental in the Pacers’ bounce-back win, delivering an all-around performance with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. Haliburton’s late-game heroics included a crucial three-pointer that gave Indiana a permanent lead with just under seven minutes left in the fourth quarter.

“So many different guys chipped in,” Haliburton said postgame. “Ben Mathurin was amazing off the bench tonight. He just stuck with it. We just had guys make plays after plays.”

Haliburton's around-the-world dime to Obi...
OR Shai's crafty left-handed finish?

VOTE NOW for Wednesday's #KiaDrives | @Kia
— NBA (@NBA) June 12, 2025

Bennedict Mathurin Sparks Pacers' Bench With Career-High Night

Second-year guard Bennedict Mathurin was the game-changer off the bench, exploding for a career playoff-high 27 points. His aggressive drives, shot-making, and hustle plays provided a huge spark for Indiana, whose bench thoroughly outperformed the Thunder’s second unit by a 49-18 margin.

Veteran guard TJ McConnell added 10 points and five steals, playing a pivotal role in disrupting Oklahoma City’s offense. His gritty play was key to shifting momentum during the second and fourth quarters, allowing the Pacers to control the pace.

Pascal Siakam, Obi Toppin, and Team Defense Propel Pacers

Pascal Siakam contributed 21 points, offering a steady presence on both ends of the court. Forward Obi Toppin made his mark in the fourth quarter with a crucial dunk to make it 107-100, followed by a block on a Jalen Williams layup that sealed the Thunder’s fate.

Overall, the Pacers put together a tremendous team effort—marked by defensive intensity, ball movement, and smart shot selection—that helped them overcome a five-point deficit entering the fourth quarter.

SHOWTIME 💥

Listen to the Korean SPOTV call of Obi Toppin's putback slam late in Game 3! pic.twitter.com/hFYdAcQOJ5
— NBA (@NBA) June 12, 2025

Thunder Fade in Fourth Quarter Despite Strong Start

The Oklahoma City Thunder started hot, silencing the home crowd with a 15-6 lead within the opening five minutes. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 26 points, and center Chet Holmgren had a strong outing with 20 points and 10 rebounds. MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tallied 24 points but was limited to just three points in the fourth quarter as Indiana clamped down defensively.

Oklahoma City turned the ball over 19 times, which led to 21 points for the Pacers—mistakes that ultimately proved costly in a tightly contested game.

“In the fourth quarter, I just thought they really outplayed us on both ends,” said Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault. “They were in character in terms of their physicality and pace. They just stacked way more quality possessions than we did.”

Back-and-Forth Contest Highlights NBA Finals Intensity

Game 3 saw multiple lead changes, particularly in the third quarter, with both teams trading momentum. After leading 64-60 at halftime, Indiana briefly lost control as Oklahoma City started the second half with an 8-0 run. The Thunder eventually took an 89-84 advantage into the final period.

But the fourth quarter belonged to Indiana, who outscored the visitors 32-18, fueled by their defensive pressure and fast-paced offense. The crowd in Indianapolis—starved for Finals success since the 2000 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers—erupted as the final buzzer sounded, knowing the Pacers were now just two wins away from their first-ever NBA championship.

Historical Significance: First Finals Home Win Since 2000

Wednesday’s Game 3 win marked the Pacers’ first home victory in the NBA Finals since 2000, when they hosted the Los Angeles Lakers in the legendary matchup that featured Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal.

For fans in Indiana, this win was about more than just taking a 2-1 lead—it was a moment of pride, vindication, and hope for a long-awaited title run. The atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse reflected that emotion, with fans staying long after the game to celebrate the milestone.

T.J. McConnell tonight: 5 steals
Myles Turner tonight: 5 blocks

It's been 24 YEARS since a pair of teammates did this in a Finals game 🤯

Allen Iverson (5 STL) and Dikembe Mutombo (5 BLK) did this on June 6, 2001. pic.twitter.com/oU36ctLvSH
— NBA (@NBA) June 12, 2025

Game 4 Preview: Pacers Eye Commanding 3-1 Series Lead

The NBA Finals continue on Friday as the Pacers host Game 4 in Indianapolis. A win would give them a commanding 3-1 series lead before the Finals shift back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Monday. With momentum on their side and confidence growing, Indiana will look to maintain their home-court edge and push closer to history.

For the Thunder, adjustments are necessary. While their young core has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the playoffs, Wednesday’s loss revealed vulnerabilities—particularly in composure and decision-making down the stretch.

Key Takeaways from Game 3:

Tyrese Haliburton continues to prove he’s the engine behind Indiana’s Finals run, nearly recording a triple-double.
Bench scoring made the difference, with 49 points from the Pacers’ reserves compared to just 18 from Oklahoma City.
Mathurin’s breakout performance gives Indiana another lethal weapon on offense.
The Pacers remain unbeaten in games following a loss since March 11.
Oklahoma City must limit turnovers and find ways to free up Gilgeous-Alexander in clutch moments.