The Indiana Pacers have forced a Game 7 in the NBA Finals by defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder, 108-91, in Game 6. The decisive victory, secured on their home court, marks the first time since the 2016 NBA Finals that the league’s premier competition will reach a seventh game. With bench depth and a standout performance from Obi Toppin, the Pacers created a commanding lead that Oklahoma City could not overcome.
Entering Game 6, the Pacers faced the uncertainty of whether their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, would be available after a calf strain in Game 5. Haliburton, determined to play, returned to the court in full form, contributing 12 points with four assists, two steals, and one rebound in the first half. His impact was further complemented by Pascal Siakam’s 13 points in the first half, helping Indiana build a 64-42 lead at halftime. The Thunder, meanwhile, struggled with turnovers, committing 21 total in the game – eight of which came from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who managed only 21 points despite his efficient shooting.
The Pacers’ bench played a pivotal role in the victory, with Andrew Nembhard scoring 17 points, including a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line, and T.J. McConnell adding 12 points. Obi Toppin was the standout performer, shooting 6-of-12 from the field and 4-of-7 from beyond the arc to net 20 points, while also tallying six rebounds and two steals. Indiana’s depth allowed them to maintain a consistent scoring output, with 11 different players contributing to the win. The Thunder, on the other hand, managed only six points from their bench, highlighting their lack of depth.
Indiana’s defensive strategy and transition game proved to be decisive. The Pacers outscored Oklahoma City on fast breaks by 22 points, capitalizing on the Thunder’s turnovers to create easy scoring opportunities. This momentum shift ensured that, despite the Thunder’s effort, they could not close the gap. Now, the stage is set for what promises to be an electric Game 7 in Oklahoma City, where the outcome of the 2024 NBA Finals will be decided.
The significance of the Game 7 is magnified by its rarity in the NBA Finals, a testament to the Pacers’ resilience and the Thunder’s inability to respond to the pressure. Fans across the league are eagerly anticipating the final showdown, as the victor will be crowned champion and the history of the NBA will be etched with one more unforgettable moment.