The 2025 NBA Finals tipped off with a thrilling Game 1 between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, but it was the Pacers—and especially their star guard Tyrese Haliburton—who stole the spotlight with a jaw-dropping 15-point comeback in the fourth quarter. Capped off by an epic game-winning shot, the Pacers’ late rally had fans, analysts, and the entire basketball world buzzing long after the final buzzer sounded.
The Setting: A Finals Clash to Remember
From the outset, Game 1 was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams showcasing why they deserved to be on the sport’s biggest stage. The Oklahoma City Thunder, with their explosive athleticism and youthful energy, dominated much of the game. They built a significant lead in the fourth quarter, putting the Pacers in a seemingly dire situation.
Indiana looked rattled at times, struggling to find consistent offense against the Thunder’s tenacious defense. The Thunder’s sharpshooters were hitting from beyond the arc, and their interior defenders were clogging the lane, making it difficult for the Pacers to execute their usual offensive sets.
As the clock ticked down, Indiana found themselves trailing by 15 points—a margin that would seem insurmountable in a Finals setting. But what happened next became a testament to grit, resilience, and the never-say-die attitude embodied by the Pacers and their leader, Tyrese Haliburton.
The 4th Quarter Comeback: Methodical and Relentless
With under eight minutes remaining, the Pacers shifted gears. The crowd at the arena grew louder, sensing something special was about to unfold. Indiana’s defense tightened, forcing turnovers and contested shots. On offense, Haliburton orchestrated the comeback with surgical precision.
Tyrese Haliburton’s leadership shone brightest in these final moments. His calm yet aggressive approach ignited the team. He attacked the basket with urgency, found open teammates with pinpoint passes, and drained critical three-pointers that slowly but surely chipped away at the Thunder’s lead.
It wasn’t just Haliburton’s scoring—though he put up a Finals-worthy stat line—but his ability to control the tempo, read the defense, and make the right play. The Pacers executed pick-and-rolls flawlessly, moved the ball with purpose, and displayed a collective will that refused to be broken.
The Thunder, rattled by the sudden surge, struggled to respond. Missed shots and unforced errors crept in as the Pacers clawed back, point by point. Indiana’s bench also contributed vital minutes, providing energy and fresh legs to maintain the momentum.
By the time the game clock showed just under a minute remaining, the Pacers had erased the entire 15-point deficit and were within striking distance. The stage was set for a dramatic finish.
The Game-Winning Moment: Haliburton’s Heroics
With the game tied and the pressure mounting, all eyes turned to Tyrese Haliburton. Known for his clutch gene and ice-cold demeanor under pressure, he took control in the final possession.
In the final seconds, Haliburton dribbled upcourt, sizing up the defense with a steely gaze. The Thunder defenders crowded him, attempting to force a pass or a contested shot. But Tyrese, cool as ever, created just enough space with a quick crossover and step-back move. The clock was winding down as he launched a deep three from the right wing.
Swish.
The ball sailed through the net with perfect precision, sending the Pacers’ bench and fans into a frenzy. The crowd erupted in cheers as the arena was filled with the electric energy that only a Finals game-winner can bring.
Haliburton’s teammates rushed the floor, celebrating the comeback and their new lead. The Thunder, stunned, had little time to respond. The Pacers held on in the final moments to secure a stunning Game 1 victory that set the tone for the series.
The Basketball World Reacts
Social media exploded in the wake of Haliburton’s game-winner and the Pacers’ incredible comeback. Highlights of the final moments were shared by millions, trending across platforms. Sports analysts praised the mental toughness and poise of the young guard, while fans hailed the shot as one of the most memorable Finals moments in recent history.
Former players and commentators chimed in as well, noting how Haliburton’s performance was a coming-of-age moment for the rising star. His ability to lead a team through adversity in the biggest moments marks him as a future NBA legend in the making.
What This Means for the Series
The Pacers’ win in Game 1 puts them in the driver’s seat, but the series is far from over. The Oklahoma City Thunder will surely bounce back with renewed focus in Game 2, set to tip off this Sunday at 8:00pm/ET on ABC.
Both teams know that the margin for error is razor-thin, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Pacers’ resilience and Haliburton’s clutch play have given them momentum, but the Thunder’s youth and athleticism make them a formidable foe.
Fans can expect another thrilling battle as the series progresses, with each game providing high drama, unforgettable plays, and intense competition.
The Road Ahead: Game 2 and Beyond
Game 2 will be critical for the Thunder as they look to even the series on their home court. Meanwhile, the Pacers aim to build on their comeback and extend their advantage.
Tyrese Haliburton’s role will be pivotal once again. His leadership, scoring ability, and defensive effort will be key to Indiana’s continued success. The Pacers are riding a wave of confidence that only comes from knowing they can overcome adversity, and that belief will be tested anew.
For basketball fans everywhere, the 2025 NBA Finals are off to an electrifying start. With Game 2 looming, the excitement continues to build, promising more unforgettable moments and spectacular basketball.
Conclusion
The 15-point fourth-quarter comeback by the Indiana Pacers, capped by Tyrese Haliburton’s epic game-winner, will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2025 NBA Finals. It showcased the resilience, skill, and heart that make the Finals a showcase for the very best the sport has to offer.
As the series heads to Game 2 this Sunday at 8:00pm/ET on ABC, fans can expect more drama, more clutch performances, and more moments that will be talked about for years to come.
The basketball world is buzzing—and if Game 1 was any indication, the best is yet to come.
