NBA Finals stars usually take center stage—not backups. But as the 20,000 fans donning golden T-shirts reminded everyone on June 11: “This is Indiana.”
Reserve guards Bennedict Mathurin and T.J. McConnell led a scorching Pacers bench, combining for 49 points to power Indiana past the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 and seize a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Tyrese Halliburton, the Pacers’ star, came just one rebound shy of a triple-double with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 21 points. Indiana hasn’t lost back-to-back games since March.
The game’s turning point came thanks to the relentless energy and toughness of Indiana’s reserves.
“Those guys were tremendous,” praised coach Rick Carlisle. “T.J. brought a competitive will that defines who we are. We have to make it as tough as possible for them.”
Mathurin exploded for 27 points, while McConnell—beloved by fans for his fiery hustle—delivered the kind of spark Indiana thrives on. Halliburton joked, “I call him the Great White Hope. He consistently energizes us with hustle plays and attacking the basket.”
Mathurin, who missed last postseason due to injury, entered in the second quarter. “We just play hard,” he said of the Pacers’ second unit. “Our job is to come in with the right mindset and give everything to win.”
Carlisle added that McConnell’s style “inspires a lot of people,” a sentiment Mathurin echoed.
For the Thunder, Jalen Williams led with 26 points, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 24 but struggled to get to the free-throw line, attempting just six shots after an 18-for-20 streak earlier in the series. Chet Holmgren posted 20 points and 10 rebounds but was 0-for-6 from beyond the arc.
Coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged costly mistakes: “They played more true to their identity than we did in key moments.”
With three minutes left and the Thunder down 110-102, Alex Caruso’s steal sparked hope, but Aaron Nesmith’s forceful block stopped his shot attempt, though no foul was called. Caruso made two free throws, but Myles Turner’s two blocks on Holmgren helped preserve Indiana’s lead despite Turner’s shaky night and possible illness.
Siakam then sealed the win with a layup, extending the lead to 112-104 with just over a minute remaining.
McConnell was everywhere on defense, making crucial stops throughout the game.
“We preach depth,” Halliburton said. “With a team this deep, it can be anyone’s night. Bennedict was unbelievable, making big plays all game. He was a huge reason for our win.”
Indiana now holds the series advantage heading into Game 4 on June 13.
