Empire State Review Team 
OKLAHOMA CITY — In a stunning start to the 2025 NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers overcame a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder 111–110 in Game 1, thanks to a game-winning jumper by Tyrese Haliburton with just 0.3 seconds remaining.
The Thunder, led by NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, appeared in control for most of the game, holding a 57–45 halftime lead and extending it to 15 points early in the final quarter. However, the Pacers mounted a remarkable comeback, ignited by a complete lineup substitution from head coach Rick Carlisle, which sparked a 15–4 run midway through the fourth quarter.
Despite committing 25 turnovers, the Pacers’ resilience paid off. Haliburton, who finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, delivered the decisive 21-foot jumper, marking Indiana’s only lead of the night. This victory marks Indiana’s fifth postseason comeback from a deficit of 15 or more points, setting an NBA record.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Obi Toppin contributed 17 points off the bench, including five three-pointers. Myles Turner added 15 points, and Andrew Nembhard matched Haliburton’s 14 points.
For the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander’s 38-point performance was the highest-scoring Finals debut in a losing effort in NBA history. Despite his efforts, Oklahoma City missed all five of their three-point attempts in the fourth quarter, allowing Indiana to seize the momentum.
