Oklahoma City, OK - The Oklahoma City Thunder evened the NBA Finals series against the Indiana Pacers with a decisive 123-107 victory in Game 2. After a heartbreaking loss in Game 1, where a last-second shot by Tyrese Haliburton gave the Pacers the win, the Thunder came out with renewed energy and determination. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the standout performer for Oklahoma City, scoring a game-high 35 points and dishing out 7 assists.
The Thunder's defense was a key factor in their success. They limited Haliburton to just 18 points, significantly reducing his impact compared to Game 1. Oklahoma City's perimeter defense also forced the Pacers into tough shots and turnovers.
"We knew we had to respond after Game 1," said Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. "Our guys came out with a great focus on both ends of the court. We played with intensity and executed our game plan effectively."
Chet Holmgren added 22 points and 10 rebounds for the Thunder, while Jalen Williams contributed 18 points. For the Pacers, Myles Turner led the way with 25 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Thunder's dominant performance.
The series now moves to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4. The Pacers will look to regain the lead on their home court, while the Thunder aim to continue their momentum and put pressure on Indiana.
Thunder Even NBA Finals with Dominating Game 2 Win Over Pacers
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 123-107 in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, tying the series at 1-1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with a stellar performance, while the team's defense stifled the Pacers' offense. After a narrow loss in Game 1 due to Tyrese Haliburton's late heroics, Oklahoma City responded with a convincing victory on their home court. The series now shifts to Indiana for Games 3 and 4.
Source: Read the original article at NBC