The Indiana Pacers are not ready to give up their NBA championship dreams just yet. With the season on the line, the Pacers delivered a powerful performance in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, beating the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91. The win ties the series 3-3 and forces a do-or-die Game 7 on Sunday night in Oklahoma City.
Let’s take a closer look at how the Pacers bounced back, the key plays that defined the game, and what to expect in the series finale.
A Game-Changing Play Sparks the Crowd
Late in the second quarter, with Indiana leading and momentum on their side, Tyrese Haliburton made the play of the night. He stole a pass from Thunder forward Jalen Williams, kept himself inbounds on the sideline, and sprinted down the court. Then, without looking, he passed the ball to Pascal Siakam, who threw down a powerful dunk.
The dunk pushed Indiana’s lead to 20 points and brought the home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse to its feet.
“That’s a special moment,” Haliburton said after the game. “Especially because we’re always teasing Pascal that he doesn’t dunk anymore.”
It was a turning point in the game — a highlight that captured Indiana’s energy and control.
Thunder Struggles and Pacers Defense Shine
While the Pacers were locked in, the Thunder seemed out of rhythm. Oklahoma City scored just 91 points — their lowest in any game since April 2022. Indiana’s defense forced 21 turnovers, compared to just 11 of their own.
The Thunder’s star players couldn’t find their rhythm, and Indiana made them pay by converting fast breaks and hustling for loose balls.
“We’ve got one more to go,” Haliburton said. “Everything that happened before doesn’t matter now. One game will decide it all.”
Haliburton’s Return Inspires the Team
Tyrese Haliburton was a game-time decision due to a strained right calf. But when it mattered most, he suited up and played like a true leader.
The star guard went through multiple treatments — from hyperbaric chambers to electronic stimulation — just to get ready. In the end, he delivered 14 points and 5 assists in 23 minutes.
“I just wanted to be out there with my brothers,” he said. “We’ve had a special season. I couldn’t sit out.”
Head coach Rick Carlisle praised Haliburton’s focus and toughness. “There wasn’t a lot of drama,” Carlisle said. “He didn’t want attention. He just wanted to help his team.”
Bench Power: Toppin and Nembhard Step Up
Indiana’s bench played a major role in the win. Obi Toppin led all Pacers scorers with 20 points off the bench. Andrew Nembhard added 17 points, while Siakam finished with a double-double: 16 points and 13 rebounds.
“We’re hungry,” Toppin said. “Everyone is working hard every day. We’re not done yet.”
The balanced effort proved Indiana is more than just one or two stars. This team is deep, focused, and ready for the final test.
Looking Ahead: The First Game 7 Finals Since 2016
Game 7 will be the first NBA Finals Game 7 since 2016 — and all eyes will be on Oklahoma City this Sunday night.
Despite their big win, the Pacers aren’t celebrating just yet. They know the hardest game is still ahead.
“There will be a lot of talk now — legacy talk, city pride, who’s got the pressure,” Haliburton said. “But we can’t let that distract us.”
His message to the team is clear: stay focused on the basics. “Game 7 will come down to who controls the fight — rebounds, defense, ball security. That’s what we need to focus on,” he added.
Pacers Fans Believe — But the Job Isn’t Finished
For Indiana fans, the win was a moment of hope. The Pacers haven’t won a title in franchise history, and this team is now one win away from making history.
But players and coaches are keeping their emotions in check. They know one game can define a season, and they want to be ready.
“We did our job,” Haliburton said. “We protected home court. Now we have to go finish the job.”
Conclusion: One Game, One Dream
The Pacers delivered their best performance of the season when it mattered most. Game 6 was a show of grit, hustle, and teamwork. Now, it all comes down to Game 7 — one final battle for the 2025 NBA title.
Will Indiana complete their miracle run, or will Oklahoma City defend their home floor? Fans around the world are ready. Tip-off is Sunday night.
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