OKLAHOMA CITY, USA – June 5, 2025 – The Indiana Pacers, considered by many to be the underdog in the 2025 NBA Finals, delivered a jaw-dropping performance in Game 1 against the heavily favored Oklahoma City Thunder, securing a dramatic 111-110 victory thanks to a sensational game-winning shot from their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton.1
The Paycom Center was buzzing with anticipation for the start of the NBA Finals, and for much of the night, it seemed the top-seeded Thunder were poised to take control. Oklahoma City’s vaunted defense stifled the Pacers’ offense in the first half, forcing a remarkable 19 turnovers and building a 57-45 lead at halftime. They maintained their double-digit advantage for long stretches of the third quarter, extending their lead to as much as 15 points in the fourth.
However, the resilient Indiana Pacers, who have made a habit of late-game comebacks throughout these playoffs, refused to fold. Led by a surge of offensive firepower and improved defensive intensity, they slowly chipped away at the Thunder’s lead. Crucial three-pointers and timely defensive stops brought them within striking distance as the clock wound down.
With mere seconds left on the clock and the Pacers trailing by one point, the ball found its way into the hands of Tyrese Haliburton. Demonstrating the clutch gene that has defined his breakout season, Haliburton rose up and drilled a pull-up jumper with a mere 0.3 seconds remaining on the clock. The shot sent the Indiana bench into a frenzy and silenced the previously roaring Oklahoma City crowd.
The Thunder had one last chance to snatch victory, but their final desperation heave fell short, sealing a stunning 111-110 triumph for the Pacers. Haliburton’s game-winner was the culmination of a furious fourth-quarter rally that saw Indiana overcome a 15-point deficit and secure their first and only lead of the entire game in the most impactful way possible.
This unexpected Game 1 win in Oklahoma City sends a clear message: the Indiana Pacers are not to be underestimated. While the Thunder were a heavy favorite to win the series and largely controlled the pace for over 46 minutes, the Pacers’ ability to rally and Haliburton’s late-game heroics have shifted the narrative, promising an enthralling NBA Finals series ahead. Game 2 is set to take place on Sunday, June 8th, back in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder will undoubtedly be looking to respond with force.
