In a dramatic opening to the 2025 NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers shocked the Oklahoma City Thunder with a 111–110 victory, overcoming a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning jumper with 0.3 seconds remaining capped off one of the most remarkable comebacks in Finals history, giving the Pacers a 1–0 series lead.
The Thunder, led by NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, appeared in control for much of the game. They forced 19 turnovers in the first half and held a 57–45 lead at halftime. Gilgeous-Alexander delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 38 points, marking the third-highest point total in a Finals debut behind Allen Iverson and George Mikan. Despite their dominance, the Thunder’s offense faltered in the closing minutes, allowing the Pacers to mount their comeback.
Indiana’s resilience was on full display as they erased the deficit with a 12–2 run midway through the fourth quarter. Head coach Rick Carlisle made a pivotal decision to bench all five starters early in the quarter, a move reminiscent of his 2011 Finals strategy with the Dallas Mavericks. This adjustment sparked the Pacers’ rally, culminating in Haliburton’s decisive shot.
Haliburton finished the game with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. His game-winner marked the latest go-ahead basket in a Finals game since Michael Jordan’s iconic shot in 1997. Pascal Siakam contributed significantly with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Obi Toppin added 17 points off the bench. All five Pacers starters scored in double figures, showcasing the team’s balanced attack.
The Thunder’s supporting cast included Jalen Williams and Luguentz Dort, who combined for 32 points. However, rookie Chet Holmgren struggled, scoring just six points on 2-of-9 shooting. Oklahoma City’s loss was only their second at home during the playoffs and their first to an Eastern Conference team since March 2024.
This victory continues the Pacers’ trend of clutch performances, marking their fourth postseason win after trailing by 15 or more points. They now hold an 8–1 record in playoff games decided by five points or fewer, underscoring their ability to thrive under pressure.
Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Sunday night in Oklahoma City. The Thunder will look to regroup and even the series, while the Pacers aim to build on their momentum and move closer to their first NBA championship.
