Indiana Pacers 108 – Oklahoma City Thunder 91 — Indiana forced a winner-take-all Game 7 by delivering a dominating performance on both ends of the floor.
- Tyrese Haliburton (playing through a strained calf) scored 14 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals in just 22–23 minutes, engineering a crucial 68‑32 run spanning Q2–Q3.
- Obi Toppin came off the bench to score 20 points, while Andrew Nembhard contributed 17.
- Pascal Siakam added 16 points and 13 rebounds — including a thundering dunk and buzzer-beater.
- The Thunder struggled: Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander was limited to 21 points and committed 8 turnovers amid an overall tough night for OKC’s offense.
This marks the first NBA Finals Game 7 since 2016, with the deciding contest set for Sunday in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder historically enjoy an advantage (15–4 in Finals Game 7s)!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
1. Transformation under pressure
The Pacers, considered underdogs, flipped the narrative under dire circumstances. Their staggering 68–32 run was emblematic of grit and depth. Bench players like Toppin and Nembhard didn’t just fill minutes—they were pivotal. This was a total team effort, shining brightest when the spotlight was brightest.
2. Haliburton’s emergence as MVP-caliber performer
Injury risk loomed large, yet Haliburton’s clutch plays—including steals and facilitator assists—reinforced his rising stature. His resilience, both mental and physical, may define this series.
3. OKC’s Frank Offensive Collapse
For the Thunder, this was more than a loss—it was a regression. Eight unforced turnovers by SGA and their season-low scoring night exposed a team lacking composure. Their offense, once dynamic, looked oddly stagnant, plagued by indecision and interior weaknesses.
4. NBA TV ratings crisis
Ironically, despite the drama, overall NBA Finals ratings are lagging. Critics point to the lack of marquee star power, defensive intensity, and paint battles. Some argue today’s offense-heavy style lacks the visceral appeal of the past.
5. The weight of Sunday’s Game 7
The stage is set for a showdown in OKC. While home-court advantage historically favors the Thunder, Indiana rides momentum and confidence. Sunday’s game will test not just skill, but mental fortitude.
Final Word
Game 6 solidified one truth: underdog spirit can topple odds never counted. Indiana’s depth, defense, and belief were on full display. The Thunder must awaken, or risk their season slipping away. On Sunday, we’ll see which story prevails: a Cinderella story or a home‑court redemption.