Haliburton Lifts Pacers to Game 1 NBA Finals Win

The Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-110 in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals, overcoming a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit. Tyrese Haliburton hit a clutch 21-foot jumper with 0.3 seconds left, marking his fourth game-winning or tying shot in the final five seconds of this postseason—a new NBA single-playoffs record. Despite committing 25 turnovers and facing a Thunder team that forced 19 in the first half, Indiana relied on resilience and unity to secure the win. The Pacers have now come back from 15+ point deficits five times in these playoffs, defying doubts about their legitimacy. Coach Rick Carlisle and the team credit their focus and belief for thriving under pressure. The victory shifts the momentum and narrative of the Finals, affirming Indiana as a legitimate championship contender.