Pacers Stun Thunder with Last-Second Shot in Epic NBA Finals Game 1 Comeback

In a heart-pounding display of grit and determination, the Indiana Pacers pulled off a jaw-dropping upset in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-110 with a last-second shot that left fans on the edge of their seats. Trailing by a staggering 15 points in the fourth quarter, the Pacers staged a comeback for the ages, proving that no lead is safe when destiny calls.

The Thunder dominated much of the game, holding their largest lead early in the final quarter. But after a crucial timeout, Indiana unleashed a furious 15-4 run, clawing their way back to within striking distance. Even as OKC stretched their lead to nine, the Pacers refused to fold, responding with a 10-2 surge to trail by just one with under a minute to go.

With the clock ticking down, Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander missed a critical shot, giving Tyrese Haliburton the chance to etch his name in Finals history. With a mere 0.3 seconds left, Haliburton sank the game-winner, marking Indiana’s first lead of the night—and what a time to take it. This 111-110 victory is the Pacers' first Finals win since 2000, a triumph of sheer willpower.

Balanced Attack vs. Star Power: While Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with an impressive 38 points, no single Pacer reached the 20-point mark. Instead, six players scored in double digits, with five hitting at least 14, showcasing the depth and teamwork that fueled this improbable comeback. In the final 9:27, Indiana outscored OKC 32-16, including a devastating 12-2 run in the last 2:38.

As Haliburton channeled the spirit of Yogi Berra with his post-game quip, 'It ain't over til it's over,' the Pacers reminded us all why we love this game. Game 2 looms on Sunday night in Oklahoma City, and if this opener is any indication, we’re in for a series that’ll keep us glued to the screen.