Thunder vs. Pacers: Game 1 Takeaways | 2025 NBA Finals
- Tyrese Haliburton's clutch shot with 0.3 seconds remaining lifted the Indiana Pacers to a stunning 111-110 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the series.
- After trailing by as manny as 15 points, Indiana found its rhythm, capitalizing on key 3-pointers from Myles Turner, Obi Toppin, and Aaron Nesmith.
- Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's extraordinary 38 points, the Thunder couldn't maintain their defensive intensity throughout the game.
Tyrese Haliburton’s buzzer-beater stunned the Oklahoma City Thunder, securing a dramatic Game 1 victory for the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers overcame a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter, fueled by key three-pointers and a notable reduction in turnovers in the second half. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 38 points weren’t enough to fend off Indiana’s late surge. The Thunder’s strong first-half defense, which forced 19 turnovers, couldn’t contain the Pacers’ improved ball control and high-scoring offense down the stretch. News Directory 3 has the full breakdown. Wiht Game 2 looming, can the Pacers replicate their success? Discover what’s next for this thrilling series as the battle for the primary_keyword, and the secondary_keyword, intensifies.
Pacers Stun Thunder as Haliburton Seals Game 1 victory
Updated June 06,2025
Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch shot with 0.3 seconds remaining lifted the Indiana Pacers to a stunning 111-110 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the series. The Pacers, fueled by a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback, stole home-court advantage from the heavily favored Thunder.
The Indiana Pacers’ comeback was a tale of two halves. After trailing by as manny as 15 points, Indiana found its rhythm, capitalizing on key 3-pointers from Myles Turner, Obi Toppin, and Aaron Nesmith. Crucially, they slashed their turnovers after committing 19 in the first half.
Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s extraordinary 38 points, the Thunder couldn’t maintain their defensive intensity throughout the game. The Pacers’ improved ball control and high-octane offense proved too much for Oklahoma City down the stretch.
The Thunder’s defense dominated the first half, forcing 19 turnovers and holding Indiana to just 45 points. Though,the Pacers adjusted,scoring 66 points in the second half,including 35 in the decisive fourth quarter,according to reports.
It’s a 48-minute game. And, in those final 20 seconds Thursday night, Haliburton and the Pacers changed the narrative … again.
What’s next
The Pacers and Thunder face off in Game 2 on Sunday. Indiana aims to replicate their Game 1 success and seize a commanding 2-0 series lead. The Thunder,however,will be looking to bounce back and protect their home court.