The Indiana Pacers delivered a stellar team performance, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. This victory gives the Pacers a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Tyrese Haliburton nearly achieved a triple-double, showcasing his all-around dominance.
Haliburton scored 22 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished out 11 assists, leading the Pacers' charge. Bennedict Mathurin contributed a playoff career-high of 27 points off the bench, providing a crucial spark. The Pacers' bench outscored the Thunder's reserves 49-18, highlighting their depth and resilience.
Key Moments and Performances
The game saw the Pacers overcome a five-point deficit heading into the fourth quarter. A three-pointer by Haliburton with 6:42 remaining gave the Pacers the lead for good. Obi Toppin added a powerful dunk and a crucial block, further solidifying the Pacers' control.
- Tyrese Haliburton: 22 points, 9 rebounds, 11 assists
- Bennedict Mathurin: 27 points (playoff career-high)
- Pascal Siakam: 21 points
- TJ McConnell: 10 points, 5 steals
Thunder's Struggles
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA's Most Valuable Player, scored 24 points for the Thunder but only managed three in the fourth quarter. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 26 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds. However, the Thunder's 19 turnovers, leading to 21 points for the Pacers, proved costly.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the Pacers' superior performance in the fourth quarter, stating that they were simply outplayed on both ends of the court.
What's Next?
Game 4 will be held at the same venue in Indianapolis. The Pacers will be looking to extend their lead, while the Thunder will be desperate to even the series before it shifts back to Oklahoma City.