Pacers Dominate Game 6, Force NBA Finals to Thrilling Game 7 Against Thunder

Indianapolis, IN – The 2025 NBA Finals are headed to a dramatic Game 7! The Indiana Pacers, with their backs against the wall, delivered a commanding performance at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Thursday night, June 19, 2025, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91 in Game 6 to tie the series at 3-3. This marks the first time the NBA Finals will go the distance since the 2016 championship.

Pacers’ Resilient Effort

Facing elimination, the Pacers came out with fierce determination. After a slow start where they missed their first eight shots, Indiana quickly turned the tide, going on a massive run in the first half. They outscored the Thunder 36-17 in the second quarter, building a commanding 22-point lead by halftime that Oklahoma City was never able to overcome. The Pacers’ lead swelled to as many as 31 points in the game, effectively turning the fourth quarter into garbage time.

A major storyline heading into Game 6 was the status of Pacers star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who has been battling a strained right calf throughout the series and looked hampered in Game 5. Despite being questionable, Haliburton suited up and played a crucial role, contributing 14 points and 5 assists in just 23 minutes. His ability to impact the game, even while managing the injury, provided a significant boost to Indiana.

Beyond Haliburton, the Pacers showcased a well-rounded team effort. Obi Toppin led the team in scoring off the bench with 20 points, while Pascal Siakam delivered a solid double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Backup point guard T.J. McConnell continued his stellar postseason play with 12 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals, being hailed as a star of the show. Andrew Nembhard added 17 points with efficient shooting. As a team, the Pacers made 15 three-pointers and limited their turnovers to just 10, forcing the Thunder into 21 turnovers.

Thunder Stymied, Head to Game 7 at Home

For the Oklahoma City Thunder, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was held to 21 points, and Jalen Williams managed 16 points. Despite their combined 37 points, the Thunder struggled to find consistent offense against Indiana’s aggressive defense and team play. Coach Mark Daigneault pulled his starters early in the fourth quarter as the deficit became insurmountable.

The series now shifts back to Oklahoma City for a winner-take-all Game 7 on Sunday, June 22, at 8:00 PM ET on ABC. The Thunder will look to regroup on their home court and secure their first NBA championship, while the Pacers aim to complete a stunning upset and claim their maiden title. This decisive Game 7 promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 NBA Finals.