In a thrilling Game 5 of the NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder managed to withstand a fierce comeback from the Indiana Pacers, clinching a 120-109 victory. The win gives the Thunder a 3-2 lead in the series, putting them just one game away from capturing the franchise’s first NBA championship since relocating to Oklahoma City.
Jalen Williams was a standout performer for the Thunder, scoring a playoff career-high 40 points along with six rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also made significant contributions, adding 31 points, 10 assists, and four blocks. Williams’ scoring prowess has been remarkable, as he has registered 26, 27, and 40 points over the last three Finals games, proving crucial in maintaining Oklahoma City’s edge during high-stakes moments.
The Pacers, who trailed by as many as 18 points in the first half, rallied to close the gap to just two points in the final quarter. However, a crucial 3-pointer from Williams with 8:06 left in the game resumed Oklahoma City’s momentum after a Pascal Siakam three had briefly cut the Thunder’s lead to 95-93. Following a missed layup by Williams that led to an offensive rebound by Cason Wallace, Williams nailed the three-pointer to push the lead back to five points, and a subsequent layup from Wallace prompted a timeout by the Pacers.
Indiana’s efforts were hampered by Tyrese Haliburton’s struggles, as the star guard played through a right calf injury. Haliburton did not score a field goal during the first half, finishing the game with just four points, having missed all six of his field goal attempts. He managed only two free throws until the third quarter, leaving his status a key concern for Game 6.
While Haliburton was sidelined in terms of scoring, backup guard T.J. McConnell spearheaded a rally for Indiana in the third quarter, contributing 13 points and assisting five others. By late in the quarter, Indiana had narrowed the deficit to 85-79.
Oklahoma City’s strategy was marked by strong defensive play, forcing the Pacers into 23 turnovers that the Thunder capitalized on for 32 points. In contrast, Oklahoma City committed only 11 turnovers, leading to just nine points for Indiana. The Thunder showcased their offensive efficiency, assisting on 24 of their 40 field goals and achieving a solid 43.8% shooting rate from three-point range.
As the series moves to Indianapolis for Game 6 on Thursday, the Pacers will aim to stave off elimination and extend the Finals to a seventh game, while all eyes remain on the status of Haliburton’s calf injury.