The Indiana Pacers claimed a crucial victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, pulling off a 116-107 win to secure a 2-1 series lead. This marks the Pacers' second significant fourth-quarter comeback in these finals, with a 32-point final period that saw them overcome a five-point deficit entering the fourth quarter, as reported by FOX59.
Indiana had a rocky start and trailed early in the game, but rebounded with a formidable 40-point second quarter. Following the halftime lead, they found themselves behind again at the end of the third, only to rally in the final stretch. Bennedict Mathurin's 3-pointer, with just over eight minutes left on the clock, pushed the Pacers into a lead they would not relinquish. Pascal Siakam, Tyrese Haliburton, and Mathurin all scored in double figures, contributing significantly to their team's scoring, FOX59 detailed.
One standout performance came from Pacers' point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who not only tallied 22 points but also amassed 11 assists, and fell short by just one rebound of achieving a triple-double, according to FOX59. Haliburton has emerged as a pivotal figure in the playoffs, delivering crucial baskets and setting the tempo for the Pacers' offense. The Thunder, on the other hand, struggled with turnovers, a significant deviation from their usual ball security, and will surely look to tighten up their execution for Game 4.
The Pacers' bench also made its presence felt. T.J. McConnell, despite a modest statline, had a seismic impact on the game with his five steals and energetic play, propelling Indiana during their second-quarter rally and throughout the contest. The Thunder, typically known for their disciplined play, succumbed to the pressure, committing 19 turnovers, a postseason high for the team. "McConnell'd" might well become the new eager phrase in the Pacers' lexicon after his performance, which included five steals that greatly disrupted the Thunder's rhythm, as per analysis by The New York Times.
Despite the setback, the Thunder are familiar with this kind of pressure, having faced a similar 2-1 deficit in the Western Conference semifinals before prevailing. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault commented on Game 3's outcome, indicating a need to reflect on the game but also maintain focus on their established playing style. "We got to learn from it and then tap back into being who we are in Game 4," Daigneault said, in a statement obtained by RMOutlook. Chet Holmgren of the Thunder also expressed a forward-looking attitude, emphasizing the opportunity ahead rather than dwelling on the emotional aspects of the loss.
The series resumes at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Game 4 tomorrow, promising another intense clash as the Thunder seek to even the score, and the Pacers aim to extend their lead.
