Mathurin Leads Pacers to 2-1 NBA Finals Lead Over Thunder in Historic Game 3
INDIANAPOLIS, USA – June 13, 2025 | IDNN Global Basketball Desk
The Indiana Pacers have seized control of the 2025 NBA Finals after a 116-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3, led by a sensational performance from Bennedict Mathurin, who exploded for 27 points off the bench — the highest by a reserve in the Finals since Jason Terry in 2011.
Bench Sparks Breakout Performance
Mathurin’s dominance was matched by T.J. McConnell, who added 10 points, 5 assists, and a historic 5 steals, as the Pacers bench outscored the Thunder’s reserves 49-18.
“This is who we are,” said head coach Rick Carlisle. “We don’t rely on stars alone. We win as a team.”
Haliburton, Siakam, and Pacers Step Up
All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton flirted with a triple-double, posting 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam delivered 21 crucial points. Together, they helped Indiana remain unbeaten after losses in the postseason, improving to 5-0.
“This team is built for moments like this,” Haliburton said. “Tonight it was Benn’s night. Tomorrow, it might be someone else.”
Historic Night for Mathurin
At just 22 years old, Mathurin became the sixth player in NBA history to score 25+ points in the Finals at that age or younger, joining Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Magic Johnson, and Tony Parker.
“I’ve stayed ready all year,” said Mathurin, who returned from injury earlier in the season. “This moment — I’ve been counting the days.”
Coach Carlisle confirmed Mathurin kept a countdown calendar in the team’s training room since his shoulder injury in March 2024, tearing off a page each day until his return.
Series Outlook: Advantage Indiana
Statistically, teams that win Game 3 of a 1-1 NBA Finals go on to win the series over 80% of the time. The Pacers now lead 2-1, with Game 4 set for Saturday night in Indianapolis.
“We’re not relaxing,” McConnell said. “We know what’s at stake. We’re all locked in.”
Game 4 Set for Saturday
The series continues at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with the Thunder needing to regroup quickly to avoid falling into a 3-1 hole.
Meanwhile, Mathurin’s breakout game may have changed the course of the series — and possibly NBA Finals MVP conversations.