Game 3 Recap
In a pivotal clash at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indiana Pacers claimed a 116-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. The win gives Indy a 2-1 series lead as this year’s championship shifts gears.
Early Thunder Spark
Oklahoma City drew first blood, ending the opening quarter ahead 32-24. Rookie Chet Holmgren was on fire, going 4-for-5 for 13 points and grabbing four rebounds. The Thunder also shot efficiently from deep, setting the tone early.
Pacers Bench Response
Indiana’s reserves flipped the script in the second quarter. Bennedict Mathurin scored 14 points on 5-of-6 shooting, while guard T.J. McConnell added three steals on defense. That 40-28 spurt swung momentum and gave the hosts a 64-60 halftime edge.
From there, the Pacers held firm, combining timely scoring runs with tough defense to close out the 116-107 win. Next up: Game 4 in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder look to bounce back and the Pacers aim to widen their series lead.
Reference(s):
Pacers regain upper hand in NBA Finals after beating Thunder in Game 3
cgtn.com