In an exciting Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.
The Pacers showed their best performance yet, with Tyrese Haliburton delivering an exceptional game and Bennedict Mathurin emerging as a surprise hero. The win was especially significant as it was their first Finals game at home in 25 years.
Pacers’ Best Game of the Series
The Pacers came into Game 3 determined to take control of the Finals. With the home crowd supporting them, they fought hard throughout the game. Midway through the fourth quarter, Tyrese Haliburton’s 3-pointer put the Pacers ahead, giving them a lead they would not relinquish.
The Pacers extended their advantage to 110-102 with just over three minutes remaining, and held on to secure the win. This was their largest lead in the Finals, and they led for a full 6:42 in the final quarter.
Key Players Shine for Indiana
Haliburton led the Pacers with an all-around performance, finishing with 22 points, 11 assists, 9 rebounds, and 2 steals. Bennedict Mathurin, coming off the bench, was a standout, scoring a team-high 27 points, including 14 points in the crucial second quarter.
His 3-pointer in the fourth quarter was a pivotal moment, putting the Pacers up 98-96, and from that point on, they never trailed.
Pascal Siakam contributed with 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. The Pacers’ bench had a major impact on the game, outscoring the Thunder’s bench 49-18. T.J. McConnell added 10 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals, while Obi Toppin provided a spark with 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks.
Thunder’s Efforts Fall Short
Despite strong performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, the Thunder could not hold on to their lead. Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA MVP, finished with 24 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks.
Holmgren added 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Williams scored 26. However, Oklahoma City’s bench struggled in comparison, and the Pacers’ overall depth proved too much to overcome.
The Fourth Quarter Turnaround
After trailing for much of the game, the Pacers gained control in the fourth quarter. A 3-pointer from Haliburton helped them regain the lead, and Mathurin’s clutch shots solidified the Pacers’ victory.
The Pacers made significant improvements, particularly in their defense and ball control. They committed just nine turnovers compared to Oklahoma City’s 14, which allowed them to seize control in the closing moments.
Looking Ahead to Game 4
The Pacers now lead the series 2-1, with Game 4 set for Friday, June 13, in Indianapolis. Teams that win Game 3 of a 1-1 NBA Finals series go on to win the title about 80.5% of the time.
With the momentum on their side, the Pacers will be aiming to extend their lead and get one step closer to claiming their first NBA Championship. The Thunder, however, will look to bounce back and even the series.
In a game that was filled with drama and clutch moments, the Indiana Pacers proved they are not just here to watch the Oklahoma City Thunder claim a championship.
With standout performances from Haliburton and Mathurin, along with their deep bench, the Pacers showed they can compete at the highest level. As the series shifts back to Indianapolis, Game 4 promises to be another thrilling chapter in this exciting NBA Finals.
