From Underdogs to Champions: Pacers' Epic Game 3 Win!

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers delivered a stunning upset in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, defeating the favored Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107. This victory marked a pivotal moment as Pacers' reserve guard Bennedict Mathurin shined bright, netting 27 points off a powerful bench contribution.

A Star is Born: The Mathurin Effect

At just 22 years old, Mathurin has emerged from the NBA Academy in Mexico to become a postseason star. Having faced setbacks last season with a shoulder injury that kept him sidelined during the Pacers' Eastern Conference run, he made sure to make his mark this finals. He set a personal playoff career high, showcasing his talent in the fourth quarter and outscoring the entire Thunder bench.

"I’m trying to live in the present and make sure this dream ends well," said Mathurin, reflecting on his journey.

Haliburton’s Return to Form

Tyrese Haliburton also flourished, overcoming previous struggles and lighting up the scoreboard with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. His strong performance helped propel Indiana to their first halftime lead in this series.

Unstoppable Bench and Defense

The Pacers' bench proved overwhelming, with T.J. McConnell making history by posting the first 10-point, five-assist, five-steal game in NBA Finals history. Coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, "We need everybody ready. This is how we gotta do it." Meanwhile, Myles Turner, despite battling illness, delivered vital blocks to secure the Pacers' lead.

Turnover Trouble for Thunder

Meanwhile, the Thunder struggled, committing 19 turnovers overall, a significant deviation from their usual gameplay. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 26 points, but league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander fell short, unable to find his rhythm in the critical moments. Coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged, "They really outplayed us in the fourth."

A Historic Night for Indiana

This was the Pacers' first finals game in Indianapolis in 25 years, attracting a remarkable crowd that included Pacers legend Reggie Miller. The atmosphere was electric, reminiscent of past glories. Indiana fans celebrated every point and block, creating a home-court advantage that the Thunder could not withstand.

Looking Ahead: The Series Continues!

With Game 4 scheduled for Friday night in Indianapolis, the Pacers are now just two victories away from their first NBA championship. Their defense has shown it can keep up with the league's best, and with players like Mathurin and Haliburton leading the charge, they truly are the team that refuses to be counted out.

For the Thunder, it’s a wake-up call to tighten their play if they wish to reclaim the momentum. Can they bounce back on the road? Stay tuned for what promises to be an explosive Game 4!