In a thrilling display of defense and determination, the Indiana Pacers secured a resounding 108-91 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, evening the NBA finals at three games each and setting the stage for a decisive Game 7 showdown in Oklahoma City. Obi Toppin’s 20-point performance off the bench, complemented by Andrew Nembhard’s 17 points and Pascal Siakam’s double-double of 16 points and 13 rebounds, spearheaded Indiana’s bounce-back effort after consecutive losses. Despite a last-minute clearance to play, Tyrese Haliburton made a significant impact with 14 points, five assists, and two steals in just 22 minutes on the court.

The Pacers’ relentless two-way surge, particularly in the second and third quarters, saw them outscore the Thunder 68-32 during that pivotal stretch. Dominating various statistical categories, Indiana forced 21 turnovers, limited the Thunder to a mere 26.7% shooting from beyond the arc, and controlled the boards with a 46-41 rebounding advantage. TJ McConnell’s all-around contribution, alongside stellar performances from other key players like Ben Sheppard, underscored the team’s collective effort.

Haliburton’s pivotal plays, including a late surge in the second quarter and crucial baskets that built Indiana’s lead, were instrumental in the Pacers’ commanding victory. In contrast, the Thunder, led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, struggled to find their rhythm, with Jalen Williams notably held to 16 points after his explosive Game 5 performance. With the series now heading to a thrilling Game 7, both teams are poised for a winner-takes-all clash in what promises to be a captivating finale to an already intense NBA finals series.