In a thrilling matchup, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 15 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter, propelling the Oklahoma City Thunder to a hard-fought 111-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers. This crucial win leveled the NBA Finals at two games apiece, showcasing the resilience and determination of Gilgeous-Alexander, the league's reigning Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Despite facing intense pressure from Indiana’s tenacious defense throughout the game, Gilgeous-Alexander found a way to break through when it mattered most. With just 2:23 left in the contest, he hit a critical 3-pointer followed by a pull-up jumper, giving the Thunder their first lead since the first half. From that point on, Oklahoma City never trailed again, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance was particularly notable as he managed to secure six free throws in the final 44 seconds of the game, after not making it to the free-throw line in the first half. “It’s a dog fight,” he stated after the game, emphasizing the physical and intense nature of the playoff matchup. “Every time you step on the floor, on both ends of the floor they make you work.”
The Thunder's success was not solely dependent on Gilgeous-Alexander. Jalen Williams contributed significantly with 27 points, while Chet Holmgren added a double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds. Additionally, Alex Caruso provided a valuable 20 points off the bench, underlining the depth and talent of the Oklahoma City roster.
On the other hand, the Pacers were led by Pascal Siakam, who scored 20 points, along with eight rebounds, five assists, and five steals. Tyrese Haliburton contributed 18 points, and Obi Toppin added 17 points off the bench. Despite holding a 10-point lead late in the third quarter, Indiana struggled to maintain their advantage as Oklahoma City intensified their defensive efforts.
Gilgeous-Alexander highlighted the significance of the win, stating, “We knew it when we woke up this morning – 3-1 is a lot different than 2-2 going back home.” He stressed the need for the Thunder to maintain the same level of desperation as they prepare to host Game 5 on Monday. Oklahoma City is eager to secure their first NBA championship since relocating to Oklahoma City in 2008, having previously won the title as the Seattle SuperSonics in 1979.
The Pacers, in pursuit of their first NBA title, started strong in the opening quarter, hitting four of their first five shots and establishing a nine-point lead. However, the Thunder quickly responded with a 9-0 run to tie the game. The first half concluded with Indiana leading 60-57, thanks in part to a three-point play by Haliburton, who drove through traffic for a layup.
Tensions escalated in the first half, with both teams exchanging technical fouls as they battled for control. The physicality of the game was evident, with several flagrant fouls assessed, highlighting the stakes of this critical playoff series.
As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, the Pacers extended their lead to 10 points with a dunk from Toppin. However, the Thunder displayed their resilience, managing to tie the game multiple times in the final minutes. Oklahoma City finished strong, closing the game on a 12-1 scoring run, largely thanks to Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership and skill.
“He’s unreal,” praised Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, while Caruso remarked that nothing Gilgeous-Alexander does surprises him anymore. “I’ve seen him do it night after night,” Caruso noted, highlighting the competitive spirit and composure of the MVP.
As the series heads into Game 5, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths, but with Gilgeous-Alexander leading the Thunder, Oklahoma City remains a formidable contender for the championship.
