NBA Finals 2025 Update: Pacers Outplay Thunder To Seize 2-1 Lead

The NBA Finals are in full swing, and the Indiana Pacers have seized an early 2-1 lead by outplaying the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 in Game 3 on June 11 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

This victory marked a crucial moment in the series, shifting momentum in favour of the Pacers as the Finals continue to captivate basketball fans nationwide.

Game 3 of the NBA Finals: A Close Call

Game 3 of the NBA Finals was closely contested through the first three quarters, with both teams exchanging leads. The Thunder held a one-point lead with six minutes left in the game. However, the Pacers quickly turned the tables with a put-back dunk by Obi Toppin, which helped Indiana get ahead by seven points. From that moment on, the Pacers maintained control and never gave up the lead.

Pacer’s Excellence

Key to the Pacers’ success was the outstanding contribution from their bench players, especially Bennedict Mathurin and T.J. McConnell. Mathurin scored 14 points in the first half and continued to play a vital role throughout the game, while McConnell added points, assists, and steals that helped keep the Thunder off balance.

The bench outscored Oklahoma City’s reserves 30-11 in the first half, giving Indiana a crucial advantage. Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers’ star guard, bounced back after a disappointing Game 2 performance and injury concerns to score 22 points.

Thunders Fall Short

Meanwhile, on the Thunder side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league MVP, scored 24 points but was held below his usual high-scoring output. The Thunder had moments of strong play, including an 8-0 run early in the second half, but they could not maintain their lead against the Pacers.

This victory gave the Pacers a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven NBA finals series, putting pressure on the Thunder, who must now win three of the next four games to claim the championship. The next game, Game 4, is scheduled to be played in Indianapolis, where the Pacers will look to extend their lead and move closer to their first NBA title.

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