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Pacers, Thunder Battle in Tense game 4 of NBA Finals; Series Could Be Decided Soon
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The NBA Finals are heating up as the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma city Thunder face off in Game 4. Indiana, after securing their first home NBA Finals victory in 25 years, leads the series 2-1. The Pacers’ strong performance in Game 3, fueled by key contributions from Bennedict Mathurin and T.J. McConnell, has put pressure on the Thunder. Tyrese Haliburton‘s resurgence and Pascal Siakam‘s consistent scoring have further bolstered indiana’s chances. Follow along for live updates and highlights from this pivotal game.
Thunder vs. Pacers: Live Updates from NBA Finals game 4
11:04 p.m.: Jalen Williams ties the game, but Haliburton quickly responds to regain a two-point lead for the Pacers.
11:00 p.m.: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returns to the game after a brief rest. The Pacers gained two points while he was on the bench.
10:58 p.m.: Gilgeous-Alexander picks up his fourth foul and heads to the bench with seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
10:55 p.m.: The Thunder tie the game with suffocating defense, holding the Pacers to just two points in the first four minutes of the fourth quarter.
10:49 p.m.: Chet holmgren’s strong play leads to a 4-0 run,bringing Oklahoma City within three points.
Chet brings the Thunder within 3 🙌
He’s got 12 points and 11 rebounds!
thunder and Pacers battling in the 4Q on ABC 🍿 pic.twitter.com/hw4M1ONCLJ
– NBA (@nba) June 14,2025
10:46 p.m.: Another Obi Toppin dunk prevents a potential Thunder run and maintains a seven-point lead for Indiana.
End of Third Quarter: Pacers 87, thunder 80
10:39 p.m.: The Thunder reduce the deficit to seven points to end the third quarter, but thay still have work to do to complete the comeback.
J-Dub with the TOUGH bucket 😤
It’s a 7-point game as we head to the final quarter!
🏆 OKC/IND Game 4 on ABC pic.twitter.com/EPVM4KAj0M
– NBA (@nba) June 14,2025
10:36 p.m.: obi Toppin makes a significant impact, blocking a shot on one end and dunking on the other.Indiana extends its lead to 10 points.
PACERS LOCKING DOWN ON BACK-TO-BACK POSSESSIONS 😤💪
▪️ 24-second shot clock violation
▪️ 8-second backcourt violationIND takes a lead into the 4Q of game 4! pic.twitter.com/vjz5ITqBvI
– NBA (@nba) June 14, 2025
10:32 p.m.: Alex Caruso scores four consecutive points, including a three-pointer, marking the Thunder’s second three-pointer of the night.
10:26 p.m.: Oklahoma City cuts the lead to two with a six-point run before Obi Toppin hits two three-pointers to negate the run.
OBI TOPPIN BACK-TO-BACK TRIPLES 🔥@Pacers lead by 8 seeking a 3-1 Finals lead 👀 pic.twitter.com/wXWD59BoUB
– NBA (@nba) June 14, 2025
10:22 p.m.: Andrew Nembhard hits a three-pointer, extending Indiana’s lead to eight points.
10:20 p.m.: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has yet to attempt a free throw, and the Thunder have only made one three-pointer in the game.
10:16 p.m.: Siakam hits a three-pointer, giving the pacers a seven-point lead and prompting a Thunder timeout.
10:11 p.m.: Holmgren ties the game with a layup, but Nembhard quickly responds with a jumper to regain the lead for the Pacers.
10:07 p.m.: The second half is underway!
Halftime: Pacers 60, Thunder 57
9:50 p.m.: Haliburton completes a three-point play, giving the Pacers a three-point lead at halftime.
Scoop… score… AND-1 FOR HALIBURTON 💪
Pacers lead 60-57 at the break looking for a 3-1 series lead!#NBAFinals presented by @YouTubeTV on ABC pic.twitter.com/zWxBkdwDgG
– NBA (@nba) June 14, 2025
9:48 p.m.: Siakam ties the game with a jumper,capitalizing on a flagrant foul. Haliburton then scores to give the Pacers the lead.
REVERSE.
OFF THE GLASS.
WITH ENGLISH.My goodness Tyrese 🤯 pic.twitter.com/Qe6zsVS49i
– NBA (@nba) June 14,2025
9:46 p.m.: Lu Dort is called for a flagrant foul on toppin with Oklahoma City leading by three late in the first half.
9:43 p.m.: Indiana fans express frustration with the officiating, and another foul is under review for a potential flagrant.
9:38 p.m.: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has 12 quiet points, while Jalen Williams leads Oklahoma City with 14 as they hold a three-point lead.
9:35 p.m.: The Thunder extend their lead to six points, their largest of the game, thanks to frequent trips to the free throw line.
9:30 p.m.: Toppin and Hartenstein receive double technical fouls for an altercation, and Toppin is assessed a flagrant 1 foul.
9:29 p.m.: obi Toppin fouls Alex Caruso on a fast break, and the play is being reviewed for a potential flagrant foul.
9:23 p.m.: Oklahoma City takes a one-point lead with tough defense, including a Chet Holmgren block.
Chet Holmgren with the denial.
Cason Wallace run up the floor.
Kenrich Williams lays it in for 2!@okcthunder looking to tie up the Finals 2-2 tonight on ABC! pic.twitter.com/G6brPeFNJI– NBA (@nba) June 14, 2025
9:20 p.m.: Five different Pacers have hit a three as Ben Sheppard…
NBA Finals: A Historical Perspective
The NBA Finals represent the culmination of a grueling season, showcasing the league’s two best teams. Throughout history, the Finals have produced countless memorable moments and legendary performances. The Indiana Pacers, seeking their first NBA title, are facing a formidable opponent in the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team hungry to add another championship to their franchise’s legacy. Examining past NBA Finals series can provide valuable context for understanding the current matchup and the challenges both teams face.
Historically, teams that win Game 4 after splitting the first three games have a significant advantage in winning the series. The pressure is on both the Pacers and Thunder to seize this prospect and gain a crucial edge. The strategic adjustments made by coaches, the performances of key players under pressure, and the ability to maintain composure in critical moments will ultimately determine which team emerges victorious.
Frequently Asked Questions About the NBA Finals
What are the key factors determining the outcome of the NBA Finals?
Several factors influence the outcome, including player performance, coaching strategies, defensive intensity, and the ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Momentum shifts and adjustments between games also play a crucial role.
How significant is home-court advantage in the NBA Finals?
Home-court advantage can provide a significant boost, with teams often benefiting from the energy of their fans and familiarity with their surroundings. However, the best teams are able to win on the road as well.
What are some common strategies used by teams in the NBA Finals?
Common strategies include focusing on defensive matchups, adjusting offensive schemes to exploit weaknesses, controlling the pace of the game, and making timely substitutions to maximize player effectiveness.
