Photo: Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Indiana Pacers pulled off a dramatic comeback to defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-110 in Game One of the NBA Finals on Thursday (June 5) in Oklahoma City. Tyrese Haliburton hit a game-winning shot with just 0.3 seconds left, capping a 15-point fourth-quarter rally. Haliburton finished the game with 14 points and has become known for his clutch performances throughout the playoffs.
The Pacers, who never led until Haliburton's final shot, have made a habit of overcoming significant deficits during this postseason. This game marked their fifth comeback from a 15-point deficit, the most by any team in a single postseason since 1998. Indiana's resilience was on full display as they overcame 24 turnovers, including 19 in the first half, which is the most by any team in an NBA Finals half in the past 35 years.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 19 points, while six Indiana players scored in double figures. Despite the turnovers and a hostile road crowd, the Pacers managed to chip away at the Thunder's lead, aided by key three-pointers from Myles Turner, Andrew Nembhard, and Obi Toppin.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a game-high 38 points for the Thunder but missed a crucial jumper with 11 seconds left, allowing the Pacers to secure the rebound and set up Haliburton's heroics. Indiana coach Rick Carlisle opted not to call a timeout after the rebound, trusting Haliburton to take the final shot.
The Pacers now hold a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, marking their first series lead in the NBA Finals in franchise history. Game Two is set for Sunday (June 8) in Oklahoma City.