The Indiana Pacers have forced the first NBA Finals Game 7 in nearly a decade, overwhelming the Oklahoma City Thunder 108–91 in a decisive Game 6 that shifts all the momentum back to Indiana in this tightly contested championship series.
At a Glance
- Pacers used a 30–9 second-quarter run to seize control
- Indiana forced 21 Thunder turnovers, holding OKC to its lowest scoring output since 2022
- Tyrese Haliburton returned from injury to post 14 points, 5 assists in 22 minutes
- Obi Toppin led all scorers with 20 points off the bench
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled with 21 points and 8 turnovers
Game 6 Breakdown
Indiana came out with a defensive intensity that completely rattled the Thunder. After a tightly contested first quarter, the Pacers unleashed a dominant 30–9 run in the second frame, capitalizing on defensive stops and forcing repeated turnovers. Their transition game flourished, with fast breaks led by Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin keeping Oklahoma City on its heels.
As MSN reports, Indiana’s bench outscored OKC’s reserves 41–20, a key margin that helped sustain their momentum deep into the second half. Obi Toppin’s 20 points off the bench provided a critical spark, while Aaron Nesmith and Nembhard combined for lockdown defense on Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who committed eight turnovers—his worst playoff performance of the postseason.
Tyrese Haliburton, back from a calf injury, contributed 14 points and 5 assists in 22 minutes. Pascal Siakam added 16 points and 7 rebounds as the Pacers dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Thunder by 12 and limiting them to 38% shooting. Indiana excelled in hustle plays with 12 steals and 7 blocks, forcing OKC into rushed shots and poor decisions.
What’s at Stake
This will be the first NBA Finals Game 7 since the iconic 2016 Cavs-Warriors series. According to ESPN, teams that win Game 6 to force a Game 7 hold a slight historical edge—momentum now rests squarely with Indiana.
Watch: Game 6 highlights: Pacers force Game 7
Sunday’s Showdown
The series now shifts back to Oklahoma City for Sunday’s winner-take-all finale. The Thunder, who looked dominant at home earlier in the series, will need a bounce-back game from Gilgeous-Alexander and more production from their supporting cast.
As NBA.com notes, Indiana is seeking its first-ever NBA championship, while OKC aims to capture its first title since moving from Seattle.
Game 7 is set to be one of the most anticipated Finals matchups in years—everything is on the line.
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