NBA Finals: Mathurin and Haliburton fuels Pacers in critical Game 3 victory

The Indiana Pacers delivered a commanding performance in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, securing a pivotal 116-107 victory over the favored Oklahoma City Thunder. The win, the first Finals game hosted in Indianapolis in 25 years, was spearheaded by a breakout night from reserve guard Bennedict Mathurin, who poured in a playoff career-high 27 points, and a resurgent Tyrese Haliburton, who finished with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds.

Mathurin, just 22 years old and in his third professional season, showcased his immense talent, particularly in the second quarter where he scored 14 of his points, and added 10 more in the fourth. Haliburton's stellar play, his best of the series so far, saw him transition from being "hunted" by the Thunder's defense to becoming the "hunter," highlighted by a crucial step-back three-pointer in the fourth quarter that gave Indiana a 101-98 lead they wouldn't relinquish.

The Pacers' victory was a collective effort, with Pascal Siakam adding 21 points and fellow reserve T.J. McConnell making history by becoming the first player in NBA Finals history to record 10 points, five assists, and five steals off the bench. On the Thunder side, Jalen Williams led with 26 points, while league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was limited to 24 points, his lowest of the series. Chet Holmgren contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort.

This win held significant importance for Indiana, as it marked the first time they avoided losing Game 3 in any of their playoff series this year, putting them within two wins of their inaugural NBA title. The electric atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse was palpable, with Pacers legend Reggie Miller, NBA icon Oscar Robertson, and WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark among the celebrity fans witnessing the historic night.

Bench dominance becomes the X factor

The Pacers seized momentum early, taking a 64-60 lead into halftime, their largest lead of the series. This was largely due to the bench's dominance, outscoring Oklahoma City's backups 30-11 in the first half, with Mathurin leading the charge. While the Thunder briefly regained the lead in the third quarter, the Pacers’ defense, a hallmark of their playoff run, intensified in the final frame.

According to The Athletic, this defensive intensity and ability to disrupt opponents' rhythm has been a hallmark of Indiana's deep playoff run. They capitalized on the Thunder's uncharacteristic turnover issues, forcing 19 turnovers in total, including four in the first six minutes of the fourth quarter, which directly fueled Indiana's potent transition game.

Haliburton's pivotal fourth-quarter three and subsequent assertive play, combined with key defensive plays from Myles Turner and timely putbacks from Obi Toppin, sealed the victory. The Pacers' ability to play in waves and maintain their rhythm, particularly when Haliburton hits his stride, proved too much for the Thunder, who struggled to contain Indiana's relentless pressure. The win improves Indiana's impressive record to 33-4 this season (including playoffs) when Haliburton scores at least 20 points. Game 4 is set for Friday night in Indianapolis.