What Happened
On June 13, 2025, the Indiana Pacers hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder for Game 4 of the NBA Finals, with the Pacers leading the series 2-1. The game was pivotal, as a win for Indiana would put them on the brink of their first NBA championship, while a victory for Oklahoma City would even the series and restore their home-court advantage. The matchup took place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, with a scheduled start time of 8:30 p.m. ET.
The Pacers entered the game with momentum after a strong performance in Game 3, where they secured a 116-107 victory. Key players for Indiana included Tyrese Haliburton, who had a notable Game 3 with 22 points and 11 assists, and Bennedict Mathurin, who scored a game-high 27 points off the bench. Oklahoma City, on the other hand, was looking to bounce back from their fourth-quarter collapse in Game 3, with MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander aiming to regain his scoring touch after a subpar performance.
Key Details
- Current Series Status: Indiana Pacers lead the NBA Finals 2-1.
- Game 4 Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis.
- Game Time: 8:30 p.m. ET on June 13, 2025.
- Key Players:
- Indiana Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton (22 points, 11 assists in Game 3), Bennedict Mathurin (27 points in Game 3).
- Oklahoma City Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (aiming for a bounce-back performance), Jalen Williams (team-high 26 points in Game 3).
- Betting Odds: Oklahoma City was favored (-230) despite their struggles on the road, where they were 0-8 against the spread in the playoffs.
The implications of Game 4 were significant. Historically, teams leading a playoff series 2-1 have won approximately 80% of the time, and if the Pacers were to win Game 4, that success rate would increase to 97%. Conversely, a win for the Thunder would tie the series at 2-2, making the Finals a best-of three.
Multiple Perspectives
The Pacers’ strategy has revolved around their bench production, which has been a decisive factor in the series. In Games 1 and 3, Indiana’s bench outscored Oklahoma City’s significantly, contributing to their overall success. Analysts have noted that the Thunder’s reliance on their starters has left them vulnerable, particularly in clutch situations where they have struggled to close out games.
Oklahoma City coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that his team was outplayed in Game 3 and needed to learn from their mistakes. The Thunder’s decision to revert to a double-big lineup featuring Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren was seen as an attempt to control the glass and bolster their defense against Indiana’s perimeter shooting.
On the other hand, Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, suggesting that despite their lead, there was still significant work to be done. This sentiment reflects a broader understanding within the Pacers’ camp that complacency could be detrimental.
Context & Background
The 2025 NBA Finals marks a significant moment for both franchises. For the Indiana Pacers, a victory would secure their first championship in franchise history, a notable achievement given their long-standing presence in the league. The Pacers have previously reached the Finals but have yet to clinch the title.
For the Oklahoma City Thunder, the stakes are equally high. They are seeking their first championship since relocating from Seattle, and with a roster featuring young stars like Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren, expectations are high. The Thunder’s performance in Game 4 is critical not only for the series but also for the future trajectory of the franchise.
The series has highlighted contrasting styles of play, with Indiana’s depth and bench production often outpacing Oklahoma City’s reliance on star power. This dynamic has fueled discussions about the effectiveness of team strategies in high-pressure playoff scenarios.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As the series progresses, several uncertainties remain. The immediate outcome of Game 4 will significantly impact the series’ direction, but it is unclear how each team will adapt to the other’s strategies. The effectiveness of Oklahoma City’s lineup changes and the ability of Indiana’s bench to maintain their production are still in question.
Additionally, the mental and physical toll of the playoffs could influence player performances. Both teams have played an extensive number of games, and fatigue may become a factor as the series advances. The ability of players like Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander to manage their energy levels while maintaining peak performance will be crucial.
In conclusion, Game 4 of the NBA Finals between the Pacers and Thunder is set to be a defining moment in the series, with both teams facing high stakes and the potential for significant shifts in momentum. The outcome will not only affect the championship chase but also shape the narratives surrounding both franchises moving forward.
