With their season hanging in the balance, the Indiana Pacers once again defied expectations — just as they’ve done all year.
Their reward? A shot at glory in a winner-take-all Game 7.
Obi Toppin led the way with 20 points, Andrew Nembhard added 17, and the Pacers powered past the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91 on Thursday night to even the NBA Finals and set up a dramatic conclusion.
Game 7 — the first NBA Finals decider since 2016 — is set for Sunday night in Oklahoma City.
“It’s the ultimate game,” said Pacers coach Rick Carlisle.
Pascal Siakam contributed 16 points and 13 rebounds, and Tyrese Haliburton — battling a strained calf — added 14. After a slow start, Indiana caught fire and never looked back.
In many ways, Game 6 mirrored the Pacers’ rollercoaster season. They began the year losing 15 of their first 25 games, mounted multiple double-digit playoff comebacks, and now stand just one win away from an NBA championship.