A stunning victory in the NBA Finals

The Indiana Pacers have once again proven they are the kings of comebacks. In a historic Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals, they edged the Oklahoma City Thunder 111–110, thanks to a last-second game-winner by Tyrese Haliburton with just 0.3 seconds left.

Another Spectacular Comeback by Indiana

Down by 15 points at the start of the fourth quarter, the Pacers looked on the brink. But once again, their legendary playoff resilience kicked in. This was their fifth comeback from a 15+ point deficit in these playoffs—a historic feat.

Haliburton: The Ice-Cold Hero

With seconds ticking down, Haliburton took over. Isolated at the top of the key, he drove into the paint and released a perfect floater off the glass. The buzzer sounded. Thunder fans silenced. The Pacers had stolen Game 1.

“I’ve dreamed of these moments my whole life,” Haliburton said postgame.

His Game 1 stats:

• 14 points

• 10 rebounds

• 6 assists

• 1 game-winning shot at 0.3s

It was his fifth clutch game-winner in the playoffs, a rare stat that confirms his “Mr. Clutch” status.

Rick Carlisle’s Bold Decision

Rather than call timeout, coach Rick Carlisle let his point guard improvise. It paid off. Carlisle praised his floor general:

“He’s a natural leader. He never shies away from the moment.”

OKC Dominant... Until the Final Moments

The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (28 pts) and Chet Holmgren (21 pts), dominated for three quarters. But Indiana’s defense clamped down in the final five minutes.

NBA World Reacts

Dwyane Wade:

“Haliburton is a f**** superstar. I need his jersey now!”

ESPN:

“The Pacers have never been closer to writing history.”

SBNation:

“This might go down as one of the greatest Game 1 heists in NBA Finals history.”

Built for Chaos

These Pacers thrive on pressure, chaos, and survival. Every game looks lost—until it’s not. From Haliburton to Turner, Nembhard to Nesmith, they play with unmatched intensity.

What’s Next?

Indiana leads the series 1–0. That road win is golden psychologically. Message received: the Pacers aren’t just here to compete—they’re here to win.

Haliburton, Symbol of an Undying Team

That buzzer-beater, the dramatic rally, the emotional resilience… the 2025 Pacers aren’t just a feel-good story. They are a force, led by a fearless playmaker who dares to dream—and delivers.