Pacers Aim for NBA Finals Momentum Against Thunder

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Pacers faced a setback in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder 123-107 on June 9, 2025. Despite a slow start in the first half, the Pacers are ready to bounce back when the series resumes on Wednesday night.

Throughout the playoffs, the Pacers have proved doubters wrong, showcasing resilience and confidence. Guard Bennedict Mathurin, who has a knack for gamesmanship, plays a critical role in that confidence. “I speak four languages, but I think I’ve trash talked in more than four languages,” Mathurin said. He talks back to opponents in Portuguese, Spanish, and French, creating an edge on the court.

Mathurin was more active in the second half of Game 2, scoring 14 points on 4-for-7 shooting. However, he has struggled with consistency during the playoffs. Head coach Rick Carlisle is looking for Mathurin to step up, as he has averaged 19 minutes in the Finals, indicating Carlisle’s belief he can still make a significant impact.

The Pacers began the Finals with a dramatic comeback win over the Thunder in Game 1. “We can win every single game. If we lose, it’s really our fault,” said Pacers wing Obi Toppin, reflecting the team’s unwavering optimism. Toppin added 17 points during the Game 1 comeback.

In the last playoff round, Mathurin faced challenges and limited minutes against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Nonetheless, his regular-season average of over 16 points underlines his potential. The Pacers find themselves in the Finals as underdogs but aim to capitalize on the momentum gained from their early-game success.

As the teams prepare for Game 3, the Pacers continue to focus on their strengths and approach the game with confidence. Stephen A. Smith, from ESPN, described Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton as one of the clutch players of the postseason, adding to the narrative surrounding the team’s rise. With strong performances from Toppin and Mathurin, the Pacers are determined to push for the championship in the upcoming games.