Pacers pull away from Thunder in 4th quarter to win Game 3

The Indiana Pacers secured a crucial victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, taking a 116-107 win at home. With this victory, the Pacers now hold a 2-1 lead in the series, showcasing their resilience and determination on the court.

The Pacers’ success in Game 3 can be attributed to the standout performances of key players, particularly Tyrese Haliburton. After a game-winning shot in Game 1, Haliburton continued to shine, finishing with 22 points, 11 assists, and nearly securing a triple-double. His sharpshooting from beyond the arc, making four three-pointers, was instrumental in the Pacers’ victory.

Supporting Haliburton was Benedict Mathurin, who stepped up off the bench with an impressive 27-point performance. Mathurin’s efficiency from the field, shooting 9-of-12, and his contribution on both ends of the court were crucial for the Pacers.

Pascal Siakam also made significant contributions, adding 21 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals to the Pacers’ winning effort. The team’s depth and collective effort were key in overcoming a strong Thunder lineup led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams.

Despite a solid performance from Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished with 24 points, eight rebounds, and four assists, the Thunder struggled in the fourth quarter, allowing the Pacers to outscore them 32-18. Chet Holmgren’s double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds was not enough to secure a victory for Oklahoma City.

The Pacers’ ability to elevate their game when it mattered most, particularly in the fourth quarter, was a defining factor in their Game 3 victory. Looking ahead to Game 4, Indiana aims to build on this momentum and extend their series lead on Friday night.

Overall, the Pacers’ resilience, depth, and strong team performance were evident in their Game 3 win, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the NBA Finals series. Stay tuned for more thrilling basketball action as the Pacers and Thunder battle it out on the court.