The Indiana Pacers, led by Obi Toppin & an injured Tyrese Haliburton, beat the Thunder 108-91 to force a historic Game 7 in the 2025 NBA Finals. Who wins?
StatPro NBA Beat Reporter
The city of Indianapolis holds its breath. After a grueling, back-and-forth series, it all comes down to this: one game for the Larry O'Brien Trophy. On Saturday, the Indiana Pacers were in transit, traveling to enemy territory in Oklahoma City for the ultimate test. There were no games played, no box scores to analyze, only the quiet, intense focus of a team preparing for the biggest moment of their lives. The stage is set for a historic Game 7.
We have one game for everything, for everything we’ve worked for, and so do they.
The only reason we're talking about a Game 7 is the Pacers' absolute refusal to lose on their home court. Their 108-91 Game 6 victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement. While the Thunder focused on containing the main stars, Indiana's depth proved to be the difference-maker. Obi Toppin exploded for a team-high 20 points off the bench, providing the relentless energy and scoring punch that tilted the series. Andrew Nembhard was equally brilliant, chipping in 17 crucial points. It was a total team effort that showcased the 'we over me' mentality that has defined this playoff run.
All eyes remain on Tyrese Haliburton. Playing through a painful strained calf, the Pacers' floor general gutted out a heroic performance in Game 6. In just 23 minutes, he put up 14 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals, setting an aggressive tone early that allowed Indiana to build a massive lead. His ability to rest for much of the second half could be a blessing in disguise. While no new updates on his condition were released Saturday, his presence on the court, even at less than 100%, is the emotional and strategic core of this team. His grit is infectious, and they'll need every ounce of it on Sunday.
Saturday was a day of preparation. After arriving in OKC, the Pacers held light practices, walked through plays, and dove deep into film study. Social media was buzzing with messages of determination from players and the team, all echoing Coach Rick Carlisle's sentiment about the privilege of this moment. There are no more major adjustments to be made, no more surprises. It's about execution, will, and who can handle the immense pressure of a single game that defines a legacy.
It's all led to this. Forty-eight minutes of basketball to decide a champion. The Pacers have battled through adversity, injuries, and a formidable Thunder team to earn this shot. On Sunday night, they won't just be playing for a title; they'll be playing for the city, for each other, and for a place in Indiana sports immortality. Get ready, Pacers fans. History awaits.
