Thunder’s Comeback Against the Pacers: 5 Key Facts NBA Fans Missed from Game 4

In one of the most jaw-dropping moments of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Thunder’s comeback against the Pacers in Game 4 not only tied the series 2-2 but also reignited Oklahoma City’s championship hopes. Trailing by 10 points late in the third quarter and down 103-99 with just 3:20 left in regulation, the Thunder unleashed a gritty rally led by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, capping off the night with a clutch performance that left fans breathless.

The Pacers had won Game 3 and were looking to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. But the Thunder, known for their resilience, refused to back down in what turned out to be a grind-it-out 107-104 win on the road. Here’s a breakdown of how it all unfolded — and 5 key facts NBA fans may have missed from this unforgettable matchup.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Cemented His MVP Moment

With the pressure mounting and the clock winding down, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered one of the most iconic shots of the 2025 playoffs — a 15-foot baseline jumper with just 2:23 left on the clock to push the Thunder ahead 104-103. That shot alone could be etched in NBA Finals history, but he wasn’t done.

Moments later, Shai drew a foul and calmly sank two clutch free throws, extending the Thunder’s lead to 107-103 with 44 seconds remaining. He finished the night with:

• 35 points

• 3 rebounds

• 3 steals

• 3 made free throws

• 0 assists

While he didn’t rack up assists, he led the Thunder’s offense with sheer individual brilliance and tenacity.

Pacers Choked Late — and Thunder Took Advantage

The Indiana Pacers looked in full control, especially after taking a 103-99 lead with just 3:20 left in the game. But the final stretch was plagued by missed free throws and costly mistakes, particularly from Bennedict Mathurin, who missed 3 of 4 crucial free throws during that crucial stretch.

While Oklahoma City’s 3-point shooting had been lackluster through the first three quarters, they tightened up their perimeter defense and capitalized on Indiana’s missed opportunities in the clutch. This made Thunder’s comeback against the Pacers even more shocking for fans and analysts alike.

5 Facts NBA Fans Missed from Thunder’s Comeback Against the Pacers

Here are the key moments and stats you may not have caught, but they made all the difference:

• Thunder trailed by 10 in the 3rd: At one point, Oklahoma City was down by 10 points late in the third quarter, and their offense looked completely out of sync.

• Thunder Overcame Weak 3-Point Shooting: The team shot under 30% from deep through three quarters but relied on mid-range jumpers and free throws to climb back.

• Bennedict Mathurin’s Free Throw Meltdown: The young Pacers star missed 3 of 4 crucial free throws late in the fourth, a turning point in the collapse.

• Zero Assists for Shai: Despite a 35-point night, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ended with no assists, making his performance even more impressive — he did it all solo.

• Clutch Free Throws Were Everything: The Thunder made 6 straight free throws in the final minute, sealing the game and silencing the home crowd.

Every one of these moments added weight to the incredible story of Thunder’s comeback against the Pacers in Game 4.

Thunder’s Comeback Against Pacers Was Fueled by Depth

While Gilgeous-Alexander took center stage, Jalen Williams (27 points), Chet Holmgren (14), and Alex Caruso (20) all stepped up in the clutch. Together, they combined for 96 of the Thunder’s 107 points, showing the team’s depth even when the 3-point shots weren’t falling. Pacers blew a 7-point lead in the fourth quarter to the Thunder, which made the Thunder’s comeback against the Pacers, and made the scoreboard for the NBA Finals 2-2.

The Pacers, meanwhile, had five players in double figures, led by Pascal Siakam’s 20 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals. Tyrese Haliburton added 18 points and 7 assists, while Obi Toppin dropped 17 with 7 boards. Still, they couldn’t close — and that’s what made Thunder’s comeback against the Pacers even more meaningful.

What’s Next: Game 5 Returns to Oklahoma City

With the series now tied 2-2, the NBA Finals return to Oklahoma City for a pivotal Game 5 on Monday, June 16, tipping off at 8:30 PM ET on ABC. Historically, teams that win Game 5 in a tied Finals go on to win the series 74.2% of the time (23-8) — making this next matchup a true turning point.

No doubt, Thunder’s comeback against the Pacers will be remembered as one of the defining moments— but the biggest battles may still lie ahead.

Also Read: Oklahoma City Thunder’s Tactics Exposed: The Blueprint Behind Their NBA Finals Game 2 Domination

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