The Indiana Pacers have seized a crucial 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 in a thrilling Game 3.
While the spotlight often shines on superstars, it was the Pacers’ resilient bench unit, led by stellar performances from Bennedict Mathurin and T.J. McConnell, that proved to be the difference-maker, electrifying the home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Indiana’s reserves collectively exploded for an incredible 49 points, showcasing the team’s depth and competitive fire. Mathurin, who missed last year’s postseason due to injury, announced his return to the big stage with a game-high 27 points, demonstrating his scoring prowess and fearless attack.
Veteran guard McConnell, a fan favorite, was the catalyst, providing relentless energy, hustle plays, and crucial offensive sparks, earning praise from teammates and coaches alike.
“Those guys were tremendous,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle remarked, highlighting McConnell’s “competitive will” and the team’s reliance on their deep rotation.
Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers’ undisputed star, nearly achieved a triple-double with 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, providing his usual heroics. Pascal Siakam added 21 points, ensuring the Pacers, who haven’t lost consecutive games since March, maintained their momentum.
The Thunder struggled to contain Indiana’s relentless attack, with key players facing defensive pressure. While Jalen Williams led Oklahoma City with 26 points and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 24, Gilgeous-Alexander’s trips to the free-throw line were significantly limited compared to earlier games. Chet Holmgren also struggled from beyond the arc, going 0-for-6 from three-point range.
Despite late-game efforts from the Thunder to close the gap, including a critical steal by Alex Caruso, the Pacers’ defense, particularly the interior presence of Myles Turner and the omnipresent McConnell, held firm. Turner, battling an illness, made crucial blocks to maintain Indiana’s lead.
As Game 4 approaches on Friday, the Pacers’ bench has sent a clear message: in Indiana, anyone can be the star. The collective effort and unwavering intensity of players like Mathurin and McConnell have positioned the Pacers favorably in this best-of-seven series, leaving Thunder coach Mark Daigneault to lament costly mistakes and a failure to stick to their identity. This series promises more exciting NBA Finals action as the Pacers look to capitalize on their newfound momentum.