🏀 Tyrese Haliburton's Clutch Shot Lifts Pacers Over Thunder in Game 1 of 2025 NBA Finals

The 2025 NBA Finals began with a game that basketball fans will remember for years. The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning 111–110 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1. The game had it all — huge leads, dramatic runs, tense moments, and a game-winning shot with less than a second remaining.

Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana’s rising star, hit a smooth 21-foot jumper with only 0.3 seconds left, helping his team complete a historic 15-point fourth-quarter comeback. The win was not only important for Indiana's championship hopes but also a reminder that in the NBA, no lead is safe until the final buzzer sounds.

A Comeback for the Ages

The Pacers entered the fourth quarter trailing by 15 points. The Thunder, led by their talented guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, had controlled much of the game. Oklahoma City looked poised to take a comfortable 1–0 series lead at home.

But basketball is a game of runs, and Indiana showed true resilience. Led by coach Rick Carlisle’s adjustments, the Pacers tightened up their defense and began to chip away at the Thunder’s lead.

With just under three minutes remaining, the Pacers were still down by nine points. Most fans and even some analysts thought the game was all but over. But Indiana’s players had other ideas. A flurry of defensive stops and smart offensive possessions set the stage for one of the NBA Finals' most exciting finishes.

Haliburton’s Moment of Magic

With the Pacers down by one point in the final seconds, the ball was in Tyrese Haliburton’s hands. The 24-year-old guard has shown a knack for clutch plays all postseason.

In earlier rounds, Haliburton hit game-winning shots against Milwaukee, Cleveland, and New York. In this game, the stakes were even higher.

With Cason Wallace defending him, Haliburton calmly rose up for a pull-up jumper from the right elbow. The ball swished through the net, giving the Pacers their first lead of the game — with just 0.3 seconds left on the clock. The Thunder’s last-second lob attempt failed, and Indiana celebrated a remarkable road victory.

NBA great LeBron James praised Haliburton’s performance, calling him "a player with heart, talent, and the will to win." Indiana’s young guard is quickly building a reputation as one of the league’s most fearless clutch performers.

Team Effort Seals the Win

While Haliburton grabbed the headlines, Indiana’s win was a true team effort. Pascal Siakam, acquired mid-season, led the team with 19 points and 10 rebounds. His veteran presence was critical, especially when the game looked to be slipping away.

Obi Toppin provided a huge boost off the bench, scoring 17 points and bringing energy on both ends of the floor. All five Pacers starters scored in double figures, showing the team’s balanced attack.

One key statistic stood out — despite committing 19 turnovers in the first half, Indiana found a way to stay within striking distance. In the second half, they cleaned up their play, allowing their talent and depth to shine through.

Thunder’s Strong Start Fizzles

The Oklahoma City Thunder played an excellent game for three and a half quarters. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was sensational, scoring 38 points — the third-highest point total ever for a player making their NBA Finals debut.

OKC’s young core of Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren showed flashes of brilliance. However, the team faltered in the closing moments. Costly turnovers and missed defensive rotations opened the door for Indiana’s comeback.

Despite the tough loss, the Thunder remain confident. Coach Mark Daigneault said after the game, "We let this one slip, but the series is long. We’ll learn from it and be ready for Game 2."

What’s Next?

Game 2 will be played on Sunday night in Oklahoma City. The Pacers will look to build on their momentum, while the Thunder aim to bounce back and even the series.

For Indiana, a win in Game 2 would give them full control of the Finals. For OKC, protecting home court is now a must.

Fans can expect another hard-fought battle, with both young teams playing with energy, passion, and hunger. The 2025 NBA Finals are off to a thrilling start — and if Game 1 is any sign, this could be a series to remember.