OKLAHOMA CITY — The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning 111-110 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 5, 2025, thanks to a game-winning jumper by Tyrese Haliburton with just 0.3 seconds left. The shot, which capped a 15-point fourth-quarter comeback, silenced the Thunder’s home crowd and gave the Pacers a 1-0 series lead.
Haliburton, the Pacers’ star point guard, finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists, showcasing his all-around brilliance. His composure under pressure was evident as he took the inbounds pass, maneuvered to his spot, and sank the decisive jumper over Thunder defenders.
The Thunder, who led for most of the game, were powered by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 38 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals. Jalen Williams added 17 points and 6 assists, while Lu Dort contributed 15 points and 4 steals. Despite their defensive prowess, the Thunder couldn’t stop the Pacers’ heroic late surge. Indiana’s balanced attack saw Pascal Siakam deliver 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Obi Toppin’s 17 points off the bench, including 5-of-8 from three, provided a critical boost.
The Pacers’ offense, known for its efficiency, shot 47.6% from the field and 46.2% from three, overcoming 25 turnovers. The Thunder, meanwhile, shot 39.8% and committed only 7 turnovers, but their 39 rebounds were dwarfed by Indiana’s 56 (NBA.com).
This game highlighted the clash between the Pacers’ high-octane offense and the Thunder’s elite defense, which had propelled them to a league-best 68-14 regular-season record. The Pacers’ ability to rally from a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter underscored their resilience and depth, with contributions from Andrew Nembhard (14 points, 6 assists) and Aaron Nesmith (10 points, 12 rebounds).
The Thunder, favored to win their first championship since their 2012 Finals appearance, now face the challenge of regrouping without home court advantage.
Meanwhile, Haliburton has now hit a game-winning shot for Indiana in all four rounds of this year’s NBA Playoffs, putting himself in the conversation for Finals MVP right out of the gate.
