Pascal Siakam delivered a crucial double-double performance as "Indiana" staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to defeat "Oklahoma City" 111-110 in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
The Pacers overcame a 12-point halftime deficit, turning the tables in the final quarter where they outscored the Thunder 35-25. Quite the statement to open the championship series.
"Oklahoma City" looked firmly in control early, taking the first quarter 29-20 and extending their advantage to 57-45 by halftime. Their star guard Shai Gilgjes-Alexander poured in a game-high 38 points, but it wasn't enough to secure the home victory.
The real story was Indiana's balanced attack and dominance on the glass. Three Pacers players recorded double-doubles in the win. Siakam finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds, Tyrese Haliburton contributed 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Aaron Nesmith added 10 points and grabbed 12 boards despite committing 5 turnovers.
"Indiana" began chipping away in the third quarter, outscoring the Thunder 31-28 before their decisive fourth-quarter surge. By the way, Obi Toppin provided a significant spark off the bench with 17 points for the Pacers.
For the Thunder, Jalen Williams supported Gilgjes-Alexander with 17 points and 6 assists, while Lu Dort added 15 points in the losing effort.
Both teams will now regroup before Game 2, scheduled for June 8-9. Can "Oklahoma City" protect home court next time, or will Indiana take a commanding 2-0 series lead back to Indianapolis?
