Pacers Dominate Thunder in Game 6 to Force Thrilling NBA Finals Game 7
Indiana Delivers a Powerful Team Performance at Home to Keep Championship Hopes Alive
Summary:
The Indiana Pacers delivered an outstanding performance in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91. With the series now tied 3-3, the championship will be decided in a high-stakes Game 7 this Sunday in Oklahoma City.
A Night to Remember in Indianapolis
In front of a roaring home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indiana Pacers displayed resilience, teamwork, and determination.
A highlight-reel moment came just before half-time:
Tyrese Haliburton intercepted a pass, tiptoed the sideline, and launched a no-look pass to Pascal Siakam, who delivered a powerful dunk.
This play sent fans into a frenzy and gave Indiana a commanding 20-point lead.
“That’s a special moment,” said Haliburton. “Especially because we always tease Pascal for not dunking anymore.”
Team Performance at Its Best
Despite a slow start—missing their first eight shots and falling behind 10-2—the Pacers bounced back strongly:
Turnovers:
Indiana dominated this crucial area, forcing 21 turnovers while committing only 11.
Defence:
The Pacers held Oklahoma City to just 91 points, their lowest total since April 2022.
Bench Contribution:
Obi Toppin led the team in scoring with 20 points off the bench.
Andrew Nembhard added 17 points.
Pascal Siakam had a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.
“We’re super resilient and hungry,” Toppin said. “We’re not done yet.”
Haliburton’s Grit and Determination
Tyrese Haliburton, who was a game-time decision due to a strained right calf, pushed through pain and treatment to play a crucial role.
He underwent various therapies including:
Hyperbaric chamber sessions
Acupuncture
Massage therapy
Electronic stimulation
Wearing a compression sleeve on his calf
Despite the injury, Haliburton managed:
14 points
5 assists
In just 23 minutes of action
“I just wanted to compete with my brothers,” said Haliburton. “We’ve had a special year. I’d regret not trying.”
Coach Rick Carlisle praised Haliburton’s attitude and leadership:
“He didn’t want the spotlight. He quietly did everything he could to be ready. That’s who he is.”
Focused on the Final Challenge
Although the Pacers’ Game 6 victory was commanding, the team remains grounded:
“We’ve got one game. Nothing else matters,” Haliburton stated firmly.
He also urged his teammates to avoid distractions and media narratives:
“There will be talk about legacies, pressure, and what this means to the city. We can’t focus on that. We need to stay locked in.”
Haliburton highlighted three key areas the Pacers must control in Game 7:
Physical intensity
Ball security
Rebounding
“We did our job by protecting home court. Now we need to be ready to fight for the title.”
What’s Next: Game 7 Showdown
The NBA Finals will come down to one last battle:
Sunday Night
Oklahoma City
Winner Takes All
This marks the first Game 7 in the NBA Finals since 2016, adding to the excitement and pressure for both teams.
Final Thoughts
The Indiana Pacers, fuelled by team spirit, clutch performances, and relentless energy, have earned one more shot at glory. Whether they can finish the job on the road remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: they’re ready to give everything they’ve got.
Sources:
NBA.com
ESPN Post-Game Coverage
Press Conference Quotes from Tyrese Haliburton & Rick Carlisle