The Oklahoma City Thunder are just one win away from clinching the NBA Finals after a hard-fought 120-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5. Jalen Williams exploded for 40 points, leading the Thunder, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 31 points and 10 assists. The Pacers now face elimination in Game 6 in Indianapolis.
Thunder's Dynamic Duo Too Much for Pacers
The Thunder's dynamic duo of Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander proved too much for the Pacers to handle. Despite the Pacers clawing back from an 18-point deficit, the Thunder found another gear in the fourth quarter to secure the crucial victory. Williams credited his teammates and coach Mark Daigneault for instilling confidence in him, allowing him to play his game.
"My team-mates instill a lot of confidence in me to go out and be me," Williams said. "And (coach) Mark (Daigneault) has done a good job of telling me to just be myself."
Haliburton's Injury a Major Concern for Indiana
A major concern for the Pacers heading into Game 6 is the health of star point guard Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton, who has been dealing with ankle soreness since Game 2, suffered a right calf injury in the first quarter of Game 5. He returned to play but struggled, finishing with just four points. His availability and effectiveness in Game 6 are crucial for the Pacers' chances of extending the series.
- Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 28 points.
- The Thunder are now 3-2 up in the best-of-seven series.
- Game 6 is in Indianapolis on Thursday.
The Pacers face a daunting task: win at home while hoping for Haliburton's recovery. Can they overcome the odds and force a Game 7?