Thunder vs. Pacers NBA Finals Game 3: Score, Highlights, and Key Moments

Thunder vs. Pacers NBA Finals Game 3: Indiana Takes 2-1 Lead with Stellar Performance

In a thrilling Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, taking a 2-1 series lead. The Pacers showcased their depth and resilience, overcoming an early deficit to secure a crucial home victory in front of an electrified crowd, including Indiana Fever stars Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Natasha Howard.
Game Recap and Final Score

The Pacers trailed by five points entering the fourth quarter but outscored the Thunder 32-18 in the final frame to clinch the win. Tyrese Haliburton led Indiana with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, falling just one rebound shy of a triple-double. Bennedict Mathurin was a game-changer off the bench, dropping a playoff-career-high 27 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 2-of-3 from beyond the arc. Pascal Siakam contributed 21 points and six rebounds, while T.J. McConnell added 10 points, five assists, and five steals. For the Thunder, Jalen Williams led with 26 points, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 24 points, and Chet Holmgren recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Despite Oklahoma City’s strong 46.8% field goal shooting, their 17 turnovers, including six from Gilgeous-Alexander, proved costly.


Key Moments and Highlights

  • Haliburton’s Fourth-Quarter Magic: After a slow start in Game 2, Haliburton found his rhythm, orchestrating the offense with seven assists by halftime and hitting clutch shots in the fourth. His cross-court pass to Aaron Nesmith for a three-pointer with three minutes left sealed a critical moment, extending Indiana’s lead.
  • Mathurin’s Bench Spark: The Pacers’ bench outscored OKC’s 49-18, with Mathurin’s 27 points providing a massive lift. His efficiency and defensive plays, including a block, shifted momentum.
  • Obi Toppin’s Clutch Plays: Toppin’s putback dunk off a Haliburton miss and two blocks in the fourth quarter were pivotal in maintaining Indiana’s lead.
  • Thunder’s Turnovers: OKC’s 17 turnovers, including uncharacteristic mistakes by Gilgeous-Alexander, allowed Indiana to capitalize on transition opportunities.
  • Myles Turner’s Defensive Stand: Despite battling a cold, Turner’s five blocks, including a key stop on Holmgren, disrupted OKC’s interior game.
Why This Game Matters

Historically, teams winning Game 3 in a 1-1 NBA Finals series go on to win the championship 80.5% of the time, giving Indiana a significant edge as they head into Game 4. The Pacers’ ability to limit OKC’s fastbreak points and dominate the bench scoring battle showcased their depth, while the Thunder’s defensive lapses and turnovers highlighted areas for improvement.

Looking Ahead

Game 4 is set for Friday, June 13, at 8:30 p.m. ET in Indianapolis. The Pacers aim to maintain their momentum, while the Thunder must clean up their turnovers and regain defensive intensity to avoid a 3-1 deficit. With Haliburton’s playmaking and OKC’s dynamic offense led by Gilgeous-Alexander, the series promises more high-octane action.


Sources: The Athletic, ESPN, NBA.com, USA Today


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