INDIANAPOLIS — Achieving a dream requires careful planning, and Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin has exemplified this philosophy throughout his recovery from a serious injury. Last season, Mathurin faced a devastating labrum tear in his right shoulder, which prematurely ended his season. Following surgery, he took a proactive approach by using a calendar to count down the days until he would be cleared to play again. Each day, Mathurin would enter the Pacers’ training facility and tear off a page, marking his progress towards a triumphant return to the court.
On Wednesday, Mathurin made headlines by scoring a game-high 27 points in just 22 minutes during Game 3 of the NBA Finals. His performance marked a significant milestone, as it was the highest point total for a reserve in a finals game since Jason Terry in 2011. Mathurin’s remarkable contribution off the bench was crucial in the Pacers' 116-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, giving Indiana a 2-1 series lead and securing their first Game 3 win of these playoffs.
“Every day he would come in and take one off,” said Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. “He was counting the days down to being cleared sometime in August. Then he was able to begin training camp, participate in five-on-five drills in September, and really get ready for the playoffs.” Carlisle praised Mathurin’s dedication, stating, “He’s put in a lot of work to be ready for these moments, and tonight he was an absolute major factor.”
Mathurin missed last year’s Eastern Conference Finals when the Pacers were swept by the eventual champions, the Boston Celtics. However, he used that time wisely, absorbing lessons from the bench and understanding the game from a different perspective. “I learned a lot just being on the bench next to the coaches. It was an unfortunate situation, but I was fortunate enough to learn and be ready for this year,” Mathurin reflected on his experience.
During the regular season, Mathurin's playing time fluctuated. In Game 1, he logged just 16 minutes with five points, while Game 2 saw an increase to 22 minutes and 14 points. On Wednesday night, he sat out the first quarter but quickly made an impact when the Pacers fell behind 32-24, leading to a strong comeback. The second unit, featuring Mathurin, outscored the Thunder’s reserves 49-18, showcasing their depth and teamwork.
Veteran guard T.J. McConnell sparked the bench with 10 points, five assists, and five steals, while forward Obi Toppin contributed with eight points, including a highlight-reel put-back dunk in the fourth quarter. Mathurin emphasized the importance of entering the game with the right mindset: “I told the guys yesterday we won’t have as many chances as when we start the game. We just have to give it all we've got to win.”
Star player Tyrese Haliburton nearly achieved a triple-double with 22 points, nine rebounds, and 11 assists, while Pascal Siakam added 21 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Center Myles Turner also made his presence felt with five blocks. The Pacers concluded the game with four players scoring in double figures, highlighting their balanced offensive attack.
“This is the kind of team we are,” Carlisle noted. “We need everybody to be ready. It’s not always going to be the same guys stepping up, but we have to do it as a team.” At halftime, Mathurin led all Indiana scorers with 14 points. He opened the fourth quarter with a spinning floater and converted a free throw, narrowing the deficit and igniting a run for the Pacers.
Mathurin showcased impressive efficiency, going 9 of 12 from the field, 2 of 3 from three-point range, and 7 of 8 from the free-throw line. Haliburton praised his performance, stating, “He did a great job of coming off handoffs, reading the pocket, and rising up from mid-range.” The young guard's ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line has been crucial for the Pacers during this series.
“I think he was great being aggressive,” Siakam added. “When he’s aggressive, he’s active on defense. We want him to keep that same mindset.” Despite the victory, the Pacers remain focused, anticipating a strong response from the Thunder in Game 4. The revitalized bench unit brings hope for Indiana as they aim to maintain their momentum and put the top-seeded Thunder on the defensive.
In front of a lively home crowd, the Pacers celebrated their first finals game since 2000, and with a series lead at stake, Mathurin turned the page once more. “I’m not trying to live in my dream,” he stated. “I’m trying to live in the present and make sure the dream ends well, which means winning the next game and winning a championship.” With the NBA Finals heating up, all eyes will be on Mathurin and the Pacers as they strive for basketball glory.
