What Happened
In Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 11, 2025, the Indiana Pacers secured a victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, winning 116-107. This win allowed the Pacers to take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. The game featured significant contributions from the Pacers’ bench, particularly from Bennedict Mathurin, who scored a game-high 27 points, and T.J. McConnell, who made history with five steals and five assists off the bench. The Pacers’ performance was marked by a strong second quarter, where they outscored the Thunder 40-19, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
The Pacers’ success in this game was attributed to improved teamwork and a more effective offensive strategy compared to the previous games in the series. Tyrese Haliburton also had a notable performance, contributing 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 21 points. The Thunder struggled with turnovers, committing 19 throughout the game, which played a crucial role in their defeat.
Key Details
- Final Score: Indiana Pacers 116, Oklahoma City Thunder 107
- Date: June 11, 2025
- Series Status: Pacers lead the series 2-1
- Key Players:
- Bennedict Mathurin: 27 points (bench), 4 rebounds
- T.J. McConnell: 10 points, 5 assists, 5 steals (first reserve in Finals history with this stat line)
- Tyrese Haliburton: 22 points, 11 assists, 9 rebounds
- Pascal Siakam: 21 points
- Thunder’s Performance: Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 26 points; Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 24 points but struggled with turnovers, committing six.
The Pacers’ bench outscored the Thunder’s reserves 49-18, highlighting the depth of the Pacers’ roster. The victory marked the first time the Pacers won Game 3 in their playoff series this season, breaking a streak of losses in previous Game 3s.
Multiple Perspectives
The Pacers’ victory was celebrated by players and coaches alike. Coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “We need everybody to be ready… we got to do it as a team.” This sentiment was echoed by Mathurin, who noted the preparation and effort he put in to be ready for the moment after recovering from a shoulder injury that sidelined him during the previous season’s playoffs.
On the other hand, the Thunder’s coach, Mark Daigneault, pointed to “unforced errors” as a critical factor in the loss, indicating that the team’s performance was below their usual standards. The Thunder had been favored to win the series, and their inability to maintain composure under pressure was a significant point of concern.
Analysts have noted that the Pacers’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and their bench’s performance were key to their success. The contrasting styles of play between the two teams were highlighted, with the Pacers’ depth and defensive pressure proving more effective in this game.
Context & Background
The Indiana Pacers have a storied history in the NBA but have not won a championship since their inception. This series is particularly significant as it marks their return to the Finals for the first time in 25 years. The Pacers’ previous playoff run ended in the Eastern Conference Finals, and the addition of young talent like Mathurin has been pivotal in their current success.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, on the other hand, entered the Finals as one of the most dominant teams in the league, boasting a record of 68 wins during the regular season. Their strong performance had made them favorites to win the championship, but the Pacers’ recent victory has shifted the narrative, putting pressure on the Thunder to respond in the upcoming games.
The series continues with Game 4 scheduled for June 13, 2025, in Indianapolis, where the Pacers will look to extend their series lead, while the Thunder will aim to bounce back and even the series.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As the series progresses, several uncertainties remain. The Thunder’s ability to adjust their strategy and reduce turnovers will be crucial in determining the outcome of the next games. Additionally, the health and performance of key players, such as Myles Turner, who played through illness in Game 3, could impact the Pacers’ effectiveness moving forward.
Furthermore, the psychological effects of this game on both teams are yet to be fully understood. The Pacers have gained momentum, but whether they can maintain this level of performance against a team like the Thunder, known for their resilience, remains to be seen. The upcoming games will be critical in shaping the narrative of this Finals series.
