Tyrese Haliburton Delivers Cold-Blooded Game-Winner as Pacers Shock Thunder in NBA Finals Opener

In a jaw-dropping Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers pulled off a miracle—rallying back from a 15-point fourth-quarter hole to steal a 111–110 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

And of course, it was Haliburton who sealed it. With just 0.3 seconds left on the clock, he nailed yet another clutch jumper—his latest entry in a postseason full of jaw-dropping finishes.

It was Indiana’s first lead of the entire game… and the only one they needed.

The Thunder tried a last-second alley-oop on the other end, but it didn’t connect. Game over. The Pacers walked off the floor in front of a stunned Oklahoma City crowd, having turned the Paycom Center into a house of silence.

This wasn’t Haliburton’s first postseason dagger, either. He’s now delivered game-winners against the Bucks, Cavs, Knicks—and now the Thunder—each one part of a larger comeback narrative that’s defined Indiana’s Cinderella run.

He finished with a solid line: 14 points, 10 boards, and 6 assists. But this was a team effort. Six different Pacers hit double figures, none scoring more than 17—proof that Indiana’s strength lies in its depth and chemistry.

On the other side, MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put up a masterclass with 38 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals. He did everything but win.

Oklahoma City looked the part of title favorites for most of the night. Their defense swarmed early, forcing nine turnovers in the first quarter alone. At halftime, the Thunder had attempted 18 more shots than Indiana and led 57–45. Honestly, it didn’t look close.

Indiana’s turnover tally (19) even outpaced their made field goals (15) at the break. Things were looking grim.

But the Pacers didn’t panic.

They cleaned things up in the second half—just five turnovers, crisp ball movement, and suddenly, the three-point shots started to fall. That gave them just enough of a lifeline. And in classic Pacers fashion this postseason, they used it to claw their way back.

Once again, they proved they’re never out of it.

Now they lead the Finals 1–0.

Game 2 tips off Monday, June 9 at 8 a.m. Philippine Time, still in OKC.