The Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off a dramatic 111-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, evening the series at 2-2. After trailing for most of the game, OKC dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring Indiana 31-17 to reclaim home-court advantage as the Finals shift back to Oklahoma City for Game 5.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the driving force behind OKC’s comeback, scoring 15 of his 35 points in the final stretch of the game. His clutch shooting, including a stepback jumper with 2:23 left, helped the Thunder erase a 10-point third-quarter deficit. After the game, SGA emphasized the team’s mindset:
“We knew it when we woke up this morning. (Being down) 3-1 is a lot different than 2-2 going back home. We played with desperation to end the game. That’s why we won.”
Indiana controlled the game early, leading 60-57 at halftime behind Pascal Siakam’s 15 first-half points. The Pacers extended their lead to 10 points in the third quarter, fueled by Obi Toppin’s back-to-back threes and a Siakam 25-foot three-pointer that electrified the home crowd. However, missed free throws and turnovers allowed OKC to chip away at the lead.
The Thunder’s defensive intensity in the fourth quarter proved to be the difference-maker. Lu Dort, Chet Holmgren, and Alex Caruso tightened their grip on Indiana’s offense, forcing bad shots and rushed possessions. The Pacers, who had outscored OKC 100-73 in fourth quarters through the first three games, struggled to find their rhythm as the Thunder closed the game on a 12-1 run.
With the series now tied, the Finals shift back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Monday, June 16. Both teams have proven they can win on the road, setting up a thrilling finish to the series. The Thunder will look to carry their momentum forward, while the Pacers aim to regroup and reclaim control.
