2025 NBA Finals: Indiana Pacers force Game 7 with dominant home win over OKC Thunder

The Indiana Pacers, facing elimination on their home court, delivered a resounding performance in Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91. This decisive victory evens the series at 3-3, setting up a winner-take-all Game 7 in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 22.

The Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd was electric, desperate to see their team extend the series, and the Pacers responded with a gritty, determined effort that showcased their resilience against the top-seeded Thunder.

A Strong Start and Defensive Clampdown for Indiana

From the opening tip, the Pacers showed renewed vigor. Despite concerns surrounding Tyrese Haliburton’s calf injury, he suited up and played, immediately impacting the game’s tempo. Indiana’s defense was stifling, particularly in the paint, contesting shots and forcing the Thunder into tough looks. 

The Pacers capitalized on fast-break opportunities, pushing the pace and getting out in transition. Pascal Siakam was active on both ends, scoring efficiently and providing key defensive plays. By the end of the first quarter, Indiana held a slim but significant lead.

The second quarter saw the Pacers extend their advantage with an incredible defensive stand. The Thunder’s usually potent offense, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, struggled to find any rhythm against Indiana’s suffocating defense. The Pacers limited OKC to just 9 points in the second quarter, completely disrupting their flow and building a substantial halftime lead. 

Tyrese Haliburton, even if not at 100%, made crucial plays, creating for teammates and hitting timely shots. The home crowd erupted as the Pacers headed into the locker room with a commanding lead, putting the Thunder on their heels for the first time in the series in a potential closeout game.

Pacers Maintain Control, Thunder Unable to Mount Comeback

In the third quarter, the Thunder attempted to chip away at the deficit, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander trying to ignite a run. However, every time OKC threatened, the Pacers had an answer. 

Indiana’s ball movement remained crisp, leading to open looks, and their role players stepped up with critical contributions. Myles Turner anchored the defense in the middle, and the collective effort ensured that the Thunder could not generate a sustained comeback.

The fourth quarter mirrored the previous ones, with the Pacers maintaining their comfortable lead. Oklahoma City’s offense remained bogged down, and the frustration was evident. Indiana continued to execute their game plan, playing smart, disciplined basketball. As the final buzzer sounded, the scoreboard read 108-91 in favor of the Pacers, sending the series back to Oklahoma City for a decisive Game 7.

The Indiana Pacers have taken game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals presented by YouTube TV and have tied the series at 3 games a piece. Game 7 will be on Sunday at 8:00 PM EDT. pic.twitter.com/DdEwxiVWy6

— Edward Eke (@eke03NBA) June 20, 2025

Key Performances

For the Indiana Pacers:

• Tyrese Haliburton: Despite battling a calf injury, Haliburton provided valuable contributions, particularly in setting up the offense and hitting clutch shots, demonstrating his will to win.
• Pascal Siakam: A strong all-around performance, leading the Pacers in scoring and contributing significantly on defense and the boards.
• Myles Turner: His defensive presence and rim protection were vital in limiting the Thunder’s interior scoring.

For the Oklahoma City Thunder:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Carried much of the offensive burden for the Thunder but faced relentless defensive pressure, making it a challenging night to find his usual scoring rhythm.
• Jalen Williams: Despite a strong Game 5, Williams and the rest of the Thunder offense struggled to break through Indiana’s defensive schemes in Game 6.

Looking Ahead to Game 7

The series now shifts back to Oklahoma City for a highly anticipated Game 7. The Thunder, with home-court advantage, will look to regroup and close out their first championship in the OKC era. The Pacers, having survived elimination, carry significant momentum and confidence, proving they can defeat the Thunder on the biggest stage. This final game promises to be an epic conclusion to an unforgettable NBA Finals.

Key Stats:

• Most Points: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (21 in 40 minutes) 
• Most Assists: TJ Mcconnell (6 in 40 minutes) 
• Most Rebounds: Pascal Siakam (13 in 40 minutes)

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