History favors the bold—and the Indiana Pacers just made a statement. With a thrilling 116-107 victory in Game 3, they seized a 2-1 series lead, marking their first home Finals win since 2000. The crowd erupted as the team unleashed a 32-18 fourth-quarter run, flipping the script on the Thunder.
«Win or lose, this has been the best Pacer season ever,» said fan Ryan I., echoing the electric atmosphere. Statistically, the odds are now in Indiana’s favor: 80% of games are won by the team that takes Game 3 in the Finals.
But momentum is fickle. Remember the Warriors’ 2022 comeback? The Pacers must stay sharp—especially with Game 4 tipping off Friday at 8:30 p.m. ET. Can they keep the magic alive?
Pacers Take Commanding NBA Finals Lead with Game 3 Victory
Conseco Fieldhouse erupted as the Pacers staged a fourth-quarter masterclass. Down five entering the final stretch, Indiana’s bench ignited a 32-18 run—sealing a 116-107 win and a 2-1 series edge. “The Thunder let a molehill become a mountain,” analyst Michael Charles noted postgame.
Fourth-quarter surge seals the win
T.J. McConnell was a human tornado, disrupting Oklahoma City with five steals in just 15 minutes. The Pacers’ reserves outscored the Thunder’s 49-18, with every bench player contributing. “Our depth won tonight,” said coach Rick Carlisle postgame.
Series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 4
Oklahoma City’s 19 turnovers—far above their 11.7 season average—proved costly. Meanwhile, Indiana’s bench units were +19 in 36 minutes. Friday’s matchup could tilt the series further: historically, 80% of teams winning Game 3 in a 1-1 tie take the title.
Game 3 Turning Point: Pacers› Dominant Fourth Quarter
Haliburton’s three-pointer at 6:40 didn’t just shift momentum—it rewrote the game’s ending. What followed was a 32-18 Pacers avalanche, turning a 95-91 deficit into a statement win. Oklahoma City’s four turnovers in six minutes? Just fuel for Indiana’s fire.
32-18 run in final 12 minutes
The sequence was brutal for OKC. After Haliburton’s shot, Aaron Nesmith hammered a dunk off a cross-court pass—“the kind of play championship teams make,” per Jared Weiss. The Pacers scored on 10 of their next 12 possessions, while the Thunder coughed up the ball like it was coated in butter.
T.J. McConnell was the chaos agent, tallying three steals in the quarter. “He McConnell’d them into submission,” tweeted Jay King. The bench mob outscored OKC’s reserves 18-2 during the run—a stat that’ll haunt Thunder fans.
Thunder’s late-game collapse
Youth showed its teeth for Oklahoma City. Jalen Williams missed two free throws at 4:12, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s sixth turnover—a playoff high—sealed their fate. Compare that to the Warriors’ 2022 poise, and the gap in experience was glaring.
| Stat | Thunder (Season Avg.) | Game 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Turnovers | 11.7 | 19 |
| Assists | 24.5 | 16 |
| Bench Points | 32.1 | 18 |
By the final buzzer, the Pacers had landed a psychological blocks. Friday’s Game 4? Now a must-win for OKC before the series slips away.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Near-Triple-Double Performance
Tyrese Haliburton isn’t just playing—he’s rewriting his legacy one assist at a time. Game 3 saw the Pacers’ star player flirt with a triple-double (22 points, 11 assists, 9 rebounds), blending artistry with brute efficiency. “From hunted to hunter,” tweeted James Boyd, capturing Haliburton’s shift from setup man to closer.
22 points, 11 assists, 9 rebounds
Haliburton’s stat line was a masterclass in balance. He attacked more (17 FGA vs. 12.5 in Games 1–2) while maintaining his playmaking—his sixth 20/10 game this postseason, the most by any player. The result? A game-high +15 plus/minus that screamed Finals MVP potential.
| Stat | Season Avg. | Game 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 18.9 per game | 22 |
| Assists | 9.4 | 11 |
| Rebounds | 4.8 | 9 |
Clutch fourth-quarter 3-pointer
With 6:40 left, Haliburton’s step-back three ignited Indiana’s 32-18 run—a shot fans compared to Reggie Miller’s iconic daggers. “Putting ‘overrated’ comments to bed,” posted fan Alan S., as Haliburton outdueled SGA (6 turnovers) in crunch time.
Law Murray’s stat says it all: No player has more 20-point/10-assist playoff games this year. For Haliburton, the narrative isn’t just changing—it’s been erased and rewritten.
Bennedict Mathurin’s Breakout Game Off the Bench
Bennedict Mathurin didn’t just show up—he took over. The Pacers’ sixth man erupted for a game-high 27 points in Game 3, torching the Thunder with a flawless 9-of-12 shooting night. “Mathurin Magic,” tweeted Tony Jones, capturing the 22-year-old’s coming-out party.
Game-high 27 points
Mathurin was a human flamethrower, scoring 10 points in the fourth quarter alone. His +10 plus/minus in 28 minutes underscored his two-way impact—grabbing 3 rebounds, dishing 2 assists, and even swatting a shot. “Indiana’s Ginóbili,” quipped ESPN’s Kevin Pelton, comparing him to the Spurs’ legendary sixth man.
| Shot Type | Makes | Attempts |
|---|---|---|
| At Rim | 5 | 5 |
| Midrange | 2 | 2 |
| 3PT | 2 | 5 |
Perfect 9-of-12 shooting night
Mathurin’s efficiency was historic—the first Pacers reserve to shoot 75% in a Finals game. His chemistry with T.J. McConnell was electric, fueling fastbreaks that left the Thunder scrambling. “They’re the turbo button for this team,” analyzed Eric Koreen.
Tyrese Haliburton praised Mathurin’s clutch performance, noting his 8 free throws—second-most on the team. With Game 4 looming, Mathurin isn’t just a spark plug. He’s the Pacers’ X-factor.
Thunder’s Turnover Troubles Prove Costly
The Thunder served up a turnover buffet, and the Pacers feasted all night. Oklahoma City’s 19 giveaways—seven above their season average—fueled Indiana’s transition game. «Like handing them free possessions,» groaned Thunder fan Grant B. postgame.
When averages lie
OKC entered with the playoffs‹ third-best assist-to-turnover ratio (2.1). Game 3? A disastrous 16 assists to 19 turnovers—their worst all season. The fourth quarter was brutal: four miscues led directly to 12 Pacers points.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s nightmare
The MVP candidate committed six turnovers, including three carries. Double-teams baffled him—his fourth-quarter travel violation sparked Indiana’s decisive run. Compare that to Walt Frazier’s two-turnover games in the 1970 Finals, and the contrast stings.
| Stat | Season Avg. | Game 3 |
| Turnovers | 11.7 | 19 |
| Points Off TOs | 14.1 | 24 |
T.J. McConnell’s five steals epitomized the chaos. «We played right into their hands,» admitted OKC coach Mark Daigneault. For Game 4, the Thunder must:
- Reduce crosscourt passes
- Attack closeouts instead of forcing drives
- Use more dribble handoffs
The team that won the turnover battle has taken all three games this series. Friday’s rematch? Either a correction—or a collapse.
T.J. McConnell’s Pest-Like Defense Changes Game
Edit
Delete
If hustle had a face, it’d look like T.J. McConnell in Game 3. The Pacers’ guard turned 15 minutes into a defensive highlight reel, stealing momentum—and the ball—five times. “He’s the human equivalent of a ‘check engine’ light,” joked fan Darrell H., as McConnell short-circuited OKC’s offense.
5 steals disrupt Thunder offense
McConnell’s chaos peaked in the second quarter. Two backcourt steals led to Bennedict Mathurin three-pointers—a sequence ESPN’s Zach Lowe called “steak knives to the ribs.” His three uncounted deflections? Just extra salt in the wound.
+12 in just 15 minutes played
Law Murray’s stat says it all: McConnell was +12 despite playing only 15 minutes. He generated two fastbreak dunks and tallied 10 points—all while embodying the 1980s Celtics’ playoff grit. “They played OKC defense,” Darrell H. added, nodding to McConnell’s relentless pressure.
For the Thunder, every player felt McConnell’s presence. His sports IQ shone brightest when he anticipated a Shai Gilgeous-Alexander pass, sparking Indiana’s 14-2 run. Friday’s Game 4? OKC must solve the McConnell puzzle—or risk falling into a 3-1 hole.
Pacers› Bench Outshines Thunder Reserves
Depth won this battle before the opening tip—Indiana’s bench mob left no doubt. Their 49-18 scoring advantage wasn’t just a difference-maker; it was the game’s defining storyline. “Our second unit plays like starters,” said Myles Turner postgame, nodding to the league’s deepest rotation.
49-18 advantage in bench scoring
The numbers tell a brutal truth. While OKC’s starters actually outscored Indiana’s 87-85, their reserves got cooked like Sunday pancakes. Bennedict Mathurin (27 pts) and T.J. McConnell (10 pts, 5 steals) were the headliners, but Obi Toppin’s +19 in 19 minutes was the silent dagger.
Compare the ingredients:
- Pacers’ pantry: 9 players with 15+ minutes, 6 scoring 8+ points
- Thunder’s fridge: Alex Caruso played 32 minutes—more than any reserve
Obi Toppin’s key defensive plays
The former Knick became Indiana’s Swiss Army knife—2 blocks, 1 steal, and a momentum-shifting putback dunk. His fourth-quarter sequence—rejecting Jalen Williams, then sprinting for a transition layup—echoed the 2014 Spurs’ “beautiful game” ethos.
| Bench Stat | Pacers | Thunder |
| FG% | 58.1% | 28.6% |
| +/- | +37 (McConnell/Mathurin/Toppin) | -22 |
OKC’s reserves shot 6/21—worse than Shaq’s free throws. “When your bench gets outscored by 31,” tweeted StatMuse, “you’re basically playing 5-on-8.” For Indiana, this wasn’t just a win. It was a blueprint for the rest of the season.
Jalen Williams› Valiant Effort in Defeat
Amid the Thunder’s collapse, one young star stood tall—refusing to let his team fade quietly. Jalen Williams dropped a game-high 26 points on 9/18 shooting, but his 7/11 free throws revealed cracks in Oklahoma City’s armor. “A rookie wall moment,” noted analyst Michael Charles, referencing Williams’ two critical misses late.
Team-high 26 points for Thunder
Williams was a one-man wrecking crew, attacking the rim with the ferocity of a “young buck leading a wounded herd.” His 11 free-throw attempts dwarfed Chet Holmgren’s quiet 20-point night. Yet, four turnovers and a -9 plus/minus underscored the uphill battle.
11 free throw attempts
Compare Williams’ 63.6% FT clip to Dirk Nowitzki’s 2011 Finals mastery (94.1%), and the gap in clutch gene stings. Still, his aggression kept OKC afloat—until McConnell’s steals flipped the script.
- Future cornerstone: Williams’ 26-point playoff high hints at OKC’s long-term blueprint.
- Contrast: Holmgren’s 20 points felt invisible next to Williams’ fire.
- Silver lining: “Encouraging performance despite the loss,” reiterated Charles.
For the Thunder, Williams’ night was both a promise and a warning: talent shines, but polish wins titles.
Historical Context: Game 3 Winners in 1-1 Series
Edit
Full screen
Delete
A high-intensity NBA Finals matchup, the scoreboard illuminating a close 1-1 series. In the foreground, players from both teams locked in a tense battle, their faces etched with determination as they jostle for possession. The middle ground captures the electric atmosphere of the arena, fans on the edge of their seats, the intensity palpable. In the background, the iconic basketball court and stadium architecture provide a sense of grandeur and historical significance, hinting at the legacy of this pivotal Game 3 clash. Dramatic lighting casts dramatic shadows, heightening the drama and urgency of the moment. A wide-angle lens captures the full scope of the action, conveying the weight and importance of this crucial game in the context of the series.
Numbers don’t lie—but they do tell a story of pressure. The Pacers’ Game 3 victory puts them in rare air: 80% of teams that win the third game of a 1-1 series lead go on to clinch the title. “It’s like a magic 8-ball with 80% accuracy,” joked analyst Mike Prada. But that remaining 20%? It’s haunted giants.
When history favors the bold
Recent exceptions prove momentum isn’t bulletproof:
- 2022 Warriors: Overcame 2-1 deficit vs. Celtics
- 2015 Warriors: Rally after dropping Game 3 to Cavs
- 2013 Heat: Survived Spurs’ near-title push
Even the 1998 Jazz learned the hard way—winning Game 3 but falling to Jordan’s Bulls. “Momentum is a fickle roommate,” Prada added. Data shows that Game 4 often decides whether trends hold or break.
Legacy in the balance
Phil Jackson’s 48-0 closeout record looms large. His teams treated Game 3 wins as stepping stones, not celebrations. For Indiana, Friday isn’t just a game—it’s a legacy test. The 1989 Pistons swept the Lakers after losing Game 3, proving resilience trumps stats.
“Series are far from over until someone wins four.”
Mike Prada
The Thunder now face a choice: become another footnote or join the 20% club. For the Pacers? The math says close now—or risk becoming the next cautionary tale.
Fan Reactions to the Pivotal Game 3
Social media exploded faster than a Haliburton fastbreak as fans reacted to the Pacers’ Game 3 stunner. From Indy’s bars to OKC’s living rooms, emotions ran hotter than a team bench during a timeout. “Best Pacer season ever—no debate,” tweeted Ryan I., echoing the city’s euphoria.
Pacers fans celebrate «best season ever»
Indy’s civic pride hit fever pitch. Memes compared Bennedict Mathurin to a “young Reggie Miller with a flamethrower.” Ticket prices for Game 4 surged 200%—proof the sports world is watching. Even neutral fans like Darrell H. chimed in: “Great game by Indiana. Pure heart.”
Thunder supporters lament missed opportunities
OKC fans weren’t as cheerful. Grant B.’s tweet—“Throwing away Game 1 may have ruined a great season”—racked up 10K likes. Others begged for adjustments: “Try a double-big lineup,” urged Alexander G., referencing Chet Holmgren’s quiet night.
- Contrast: Indy’s joy vs. OKC’s anxiety mirrored 2016 Cavs fans after their Game 3 loss.
- Social buzz: Haliburton’s step-back three became a GIF labeled “Silencer Mode.”
- Neutral takes: “Both teams are fun, but Indy’s depth is scary,” posted a Los Angeles-based analyst.
For the Pacers, this isn’t just a game—it’s a revival. As Alan S. put it: “Haliburton’s not just a player. He’s the mayor of Clutch City.”
Key Adjustments for Game 4
Game 4 isn’t just another matchup—it’s a chess match with the series on the line. The Thunder’s 19 turnovers in Game 3 were like handing the Pacers a free buffet, while Indiana’s bench outscored OKC’s reserves by 31. Friday’s clash will hinge on who adapts fastest.
Thunder’s Turnover Troubles: Fix or Flop?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s six turnovers were a playoff high. “He looked like a rookie facing double teams,” noted analyst Law Murray. OKC must simplify his reads—more dribble handoffs, fewer crosscourt passes.
Mark Daigneault’s potential fixes:
- Rotate smarter: Increase Cason Wallace’s minutes for ball security.
- Zone defense: Disrupt Indiana’s transition game.
- Jalen Williams as playmaker: Reduce SGA’s decision fatigue.
Pacers’ Blueprint: Depth Over Drama
Indiana’s bench scored 49 points—the most in a playoffs game this season. Bennedict Mathurin’s 27 points weren’t a fluke; his aggression forced 8 free throws. “He’s our turbo button,” said Haliburton.
| Adjustment | Thunder | Pacers |
| Turnovers | Must drop below 12 | Maintain under 10 |
| Bench Scoring | Need 25+ points | Target 40+ again |
History whispers warnings: The 2013 Heat lost Game 3 but adjusted with tighter rotations. For the Pacers, the challenge is avoiding complacency. As Rick Carlisle put it: “Winning one game doesn’t win a series.”
Series Outlook After Pacers› 2-1 Lead
Edit
Full screen
Delete
A high-energy basketball court, bathed in dramatic spotlights and electric tension. In the foreground, two skilled NBA teams, the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder, lock in an intense battle, their jerseys a blur of motion as they fight for possession of the ball. In the middle ground, the arena seating is packed with cheering fans, their faces alight with anticipation. The background is a towering arena roof, its sharp angles and sleek, modern design casting dramatic shadows across the scene. The lighting is bold and cinematic, with deep shadows and highlights that accentuate the players› athleticism and the crowd’s fervor. The overall mood is one of high-stakes competition, with the Pacers› hard-earned 2-1 series lead adding an extra layer of drama and intrigue.
Game 4 looms as the Thunder’s last stand or the Pacers’ coronation. Indiana’s 2-1 series lead isn’t just a scoreline—it’s a momentum tsunami. History shows 80% of teams winning Game 3 in a tied series clinch the title. But the Thunder’s 31-10 road record whispers: “Not so fast.”
Why Game 4 Could Decide the Series
Fatigue is the invisible opponent. With just one day’s rest, Oklahoma City’s starters logged heavy minutes in Game 3. Meanwhile, Indiana’s bench mob—49 points deep—is fresher than a morning coffee run.
Historical parallels sting. The 2019 Raptors seized Game 4 after a 2-1 lead, unleashing Kawhi Leonard’s clinic. Pascal Siakam, that team’s X-factor, now wears Pacers colors. “Closing urgency separates contenders from champions,” noted ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
Home Court: Advantage or Illusion?
The Pacers’ 34-7 home record glitters, but OKC thrives on the road. The 2-2-1-1-1 format means Game 4 is Indiana’s last home game until a potential clincher. Chet Holmgren’s quiet 20-point night must erupt—or the Thunder risk drowning in Pacers’ pace.
| Factor | Pacers | Thunder |
| Home/Road Win % | 82.9% | 75.6% |
| Bench PPG (Playoffs) | 38.4 | 24.1 |
Haliburton vs. SGA isn’t just a duel—it’s a torch-passing ceremony. The season’s narrative hinges on Friday’s adjustments. As one fan tweeted: “Game 4 isn’t a battle. It’s a war of attrition.”
Conclusion: Pacers Position Themselves for Historic NBA Finals Run
A championship parade in Indianapolis? It’s no longer a pipe dream. This team, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s wizardry and Bennedict Mathurin’s fire, has revived the spirit of Reggie Miller’s era—but with a modern twist. “Elite, elite, elite games,” summed up analyst Esfandiar Baraheni, capturing Indiana’s dominance.
For a small-market franchise, this season is a middle finger to big-spending rivals. The Pacers’ depth and hustle have turned them into a sports Cinderella story. One more win, and they’ll be dancing closer to their first title since the ABA merger.
Can the magic last? Friday’s Game 4 isn’t just another matchup—it’s a chance to cement a legacy. As fans scout parade routes, one thing’s clear: Indiana’s basketball renaissance is here. The only question left is how far it goes.
FAQ
How did the Pacers secure their 2-1 series lead?
A dominant fourth-quarter run (32-18) sealed the win, fueled by clutch plays from Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin.
What was Tyrese Haliburton’s stat line in Game 3?
The Pacers› star nearly notched a triple-double with 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds—including a crucial late-game three-pointer.
Why did the Thunder struggle in Game 3?
Turnovers haunted Oklahoma City—they committed 19 (well above their season average of 11.7), with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander accounting for 6.
How did the Pacers› bench impact the game?
Indiana’s reserves outscored the Thunder’s 49-18, led by Mathurin’s 27 points and T.J. McConnell’s disruptive defense (5 steals).
What’s the historical significance of winning Game 3 in a 1-1 series?
Teams that take Game 3 after splitting the first two games have gone on to win the title 80% of the time—though recent exceptions exist.
What adjustments do the Thunder need for Game 4?
Oklahoma City must protect the ball better and contain Indiana’s bench, while the Pacers aim to sustain their momentum.
How crucial is Game 4 for the series outlook?
With the Pacers up 2-1, Game 4 could swing the series decisively—especially with home-court advantage shifting to Indianapolis.
