Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double & Mathurin Spark Pacers’ Game 3 Win
- Game Summary: A Statement Win
- Haliburton’s Near Triple‑Double
- Bench Blasts: Mathurin & McConnell Rise
- All‑Canadian Influence
- Historical Significance & Series Context
- What to Expect in Game 4
- FAQ
Game Summary: A Statement Win
In Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double recaptured home‑court dominance with a 116–107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, taking a commanding 2–1 lead in the series. Facing elimination and seeking to reassert their identity, the Pacers put together a full‑team performance that ultimately pushed them ahead. This marked Indiana’s first NBA Finals win at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in 25 years, and it came complete with energy, execution, and unforgettable moments.
Haliburton’s Near Triple‑Double
Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double flirted with perfection, logging 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds—just one board shy of the elusive triple‑double. His precision from beyond the arc (4-of-8 threes, 9-of-17 FG) and total court vision were catalysts, spotlighting why he’s become the team’s emotional and tactical centerpiece :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}. The performance also showcased his ability to control the game across multiple dimensions on basketball’s biggest stage.
Bench Blasts: Mathurin & McConnell Rise
While Haliburton starred, the Pacers’ bench stole the show: reserve guard Bennedict Mathurin erupted with a playoff career–high 27 points in only 22 minutes, becoming the most explosive role player performance since Jason Terry’s 27 in the 2011 Finals :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. T.J. McConnell continued his high-energy spark, contributing 10 points, five assists, and five steals while igniting the home crowd with hustle plays and defensive intensity :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. Together, they powered a 49–18 bench scoring edge over OKC’s reserves :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}—a decisive factor in the win. Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double
All‑Canadian Influence
The game showcased an all‑Canadian charge: Mathurin, Thunder scorer Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, Andrew Nembhard, and Lu Dort all saw their presence felt. Mathurin’s 27 points and Nembhard’s defensive efforts against Gilgeous‑Alexander highlighted the growing influence of Canadian talent on the NBA Finals stage :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. This new wave of Canadian players is reshaping the league’s landscape. Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double
Historical Significance & Series Context
Indiana’s ability to win Game 3 after splitting the first two makes it a clinching moment in their bid for a title. Teams that win a tied Finals Game 3 go on to take the championship 80.5% of the time :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}. The Pacers are also riding a wave, marking their 10th consecutive win following a loss since mid‑March :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}. Plus, it’s their first Finals victory at home since 2000—an emotional high point for the franchise.
What to Expect in Game 4
Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double With Game 4 coming up this Friday in Indy, expect another energetic effort from the bench and the starters to feed off the momentum. Oklahoma City will look to counter with improved shots and lower turnovers—especially from Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, whose four turnovers in Game 3 hurt the Thunder’s rhythm :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}. The Pacers are gearing to build on their depth advantage and crowd energy to push their lead to 3–1.
FAQ
Why was Haliburton’s performance special?
He nearly recorded a triple‑double (22 PTS, 11 AST, 9 REB) in a high‑pressure Finals game—demonstrating his elite playmaking and scoring on one of the biggest stages. It underscored his emergence as a superstar Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double. (Source: AP, Reuters) :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
How did the bench step up?
Bennedict Mathurin scored 27 points in just 22 minutes, and T.J. McConnell added 10/5/5, lifting the bench to a 49–18 scoring advantage over OKC’s reserves. Their spark turned the game in Indiana’s favor Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
What makes game‑3 wins so pivotal?
Historically, a team up 2–1 in the Finals after Game 3 goes on to win 80.5% of the time—granting a significant psychological and statistical edge. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
What’s next for this series?
Game 4 is Friday in Indianapolis. The Pacers aim to push the lead to 3–1, while the Thunder will look to bounce back and restore home‑court momentum before heading back to OKC.
Why mention Canadian players?
With key contributions from Mathurin, Nembhard, Dort, and MVP Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, this Finals game featured four Canadians—highlighting Canada’s growing presence in the NBA’s biggest moments Tyrese Haliburton Near Triple‑Double. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
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Game Summary: A Statement Win
Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals saw the Indiana Pacers rise with urgency and poise, securing a critical 116–107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. This win not only pushed them to a 2–1 series lead but also gave them their first NBA Finals home win since 2000. The energy inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse was electric, as fans witnessed their team dominate late with relentless effort and clutch execution.
For full NBA Finals coverage and analysis, visit NBA.com News.
Haliburton’s Near Triple‑Double
Tyrese Haliburton was nothing short of sensational. He tallied 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds — just one board shy of a triple-double. His impact stretched beyond stats; he controlled pace, dictated matchups, and energized teammates with his court vision and confidence. With this game, Haliburton continued building his legacy as the face of the Pacers’ franchise and one of the NBA’s most efficient floor generals. Check out his game highlights on YouTube.
Bench Blasts: Mathurin & McConnell Rise
Bennedict Mathurin delivered a playoff-best 27 points in 22 high-impact minutes, demonstrating why he’s one of the league’s most promising young scorers. Alongside him, veteran spark plug T.J. McConnell added 10 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals. Their combined effort led the Indiana bench to a 49–18 advantage, completely overpowering OKC’s reserves. This depth has been a game-changer in the series, giving the Pacers a boost every time the starters rest.
Learn more about Mathurin’s player development at Basketball Reference.
All‑Canadian Influence
This game was a showcase of Canadian talent. From Mathurin and Nembhard on the Pacers to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luguentz Dort on the Thunder, it was clear that Canada’s NBA pipeline is thriving. Each contributed significantly: Mathurin with his scoring burst, Nembhard with tough defense, and SGA with 30 points. These performances emphasize how Canadian athletes are increasingly shaping playoff narratives and redefining international impact in the NBA.
Read more about the rise of Canadian NBA stars on CBC Sports.
Historical Significance & Series Context
Historically, the winner of Game 3 in a tied NBA Finals has gone on to win the championship over 80% of the time. The Pacers now find themselves in a favorable spot statistically and emotionally. With this win, they also extended their streak of bouncing back after every loss since March — a pattern of resilience that bodes well for their title aspirations. This win wasn’t just a victory — it was a statement.
Explore NBA playoff stats on Basketball-Reference Playoffs.
What to Expect in Game 4
Looking ahead to Game 4, the Pacers will aim to capitalize on their momentum, while the Thunder need answers — especially for their bench struggles and Haliburton’s playmaking. Gilgeous-Alexander will have to limit turnovers, and Oklahoma’s role players must step up to even the series. With both teams now fully aware of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, expect tactical adjustments and another tightly contested showdown in Indianapolis.
Don’t miss Game 4 — check the full schedule and updates on the ESPN NBA page.
FAQ
Why was Haliburton’s performance special?
He recorded 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, just missing a triple-double. His composure and leadership helped the Pacers close out a crucial game on the biggest stage of his career.
How did the Pacers bench dominate?
Bennedict Mathurin scored 27 points, and McConnell added hustle stats across the board. Their energy led to a 49–18 bench scoring advantage — an enormous edge in a Finals matchup.
What’s the historical importance of Game 3?
Teams that win Game 3 in a tied series go on to win the championship about 80% of the time. It often swings momentum and sets the tone for the remainder of the Finals.
Who are the key Canadian players in this Finals?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder), Bennedict Mathurin, and Andrew Nembhard (Pacers) all played major roles in Game 3, marking a strong Canadian presence on both sides.
What are the expectations for Game 4?
Indiana aims to take a 3–1 lead, while OKC hopes to reset and regain momentum. Key matchups include Haliburton vs. SGA and how each bench unit performs under pressure.
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