Thunder Stuns Pacers in Fourth Quarter, Ties NBA Finals 2-2
In a thrilling turnaround, the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the final 12 minutes to overcome a 7-point deficit and defeat the Indiana Pacers 111-104. The victory, achieved in Indianapolis, ties the NBA Finals series at 2-2.
SGA’s Late Surge Secures the Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 15 points in the last five minutes to lead the Thunder with 35 points.
After a scoreless fourth quarter, SGA came alive, leading the Thunder back from the brink. His basket with 2:23 left gave Oklahoma City their first lead since early in the second half, 104-103. The Thunder never trailed again.
The Canadian star finished with 35 points but, unusually, had no assists. His last scoreless fourth quarter was as far back as 2017.
Supporting Cast Shines
- Jalen Williams: 27 points, 7 rebounds
- Alex Caruso: 20 points, 5 assists
The Thunder’s supporting cast played a crucial role in the comeback. Despite struggling from the three-point line (3/17), Oklahoma City secured the victory.
Pacers’ Struggles
The Pacers’ offense faltered late, with Pascal Siakam unable to score in the fourth quarter. Tyrese Haliburton, while contributing 18 points and 7 assists, had a quiet shooting night, making just 1/7 from beyond the arc.
Montreal’s Bennedict Mathurin, after a strong game 3, was limited to 8 points in 14 minutes. Luguentz Dort provided valuable defensive intensity but scored little (2/7 for 6 points).
Series Proceeds
The series now shifts to Oklahoma City for game 5 on Monday. The sixth game is back in Indianapolis on Thursday, with a potential game 7 in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 22.
Did you know?
This is the first time in the NBA Finals that the Thunder have come back from a 7-point deficit in the final quarter. They are just the fourth team in NBA history to achieve this.
Pro tip
Don’t count out the Thunder’s resilience and ability to close out games late. They’ve shown it time and time again this season.