Haliburton’s Buzzer-Beater Steals Game 1: Pacers Upset Thunder in Thrilling NBA Finals Opener

The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning upset in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-110 on a last-second, game-winning shot by Tyrese Haliburton. The victory defied expert predictions and sent shockwaves through the basketball world.

The Thunder started strong, jumping out to a 7-0 lead and extending their advantage to 28-17 thanks to a dominant performance from MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 12 points in the first quarter alone. Oklahoma City held a 29-20 lead at the end of the first.

Gilgeous-Alexander continued his impressive scoring in the second quarter, contributing another 7 points before heading to the bench. However, the Pacers capitalized on his absence, closing the gap to just four points. A three-point barrage by Buddy Hield helped the Thunder regain momentum, pushing their lead to 13 points and ending the half with a comfortable 57-45 advantage. Gilgeous-Alexander finished the half with 19 points, while the Pacers committed a staggering 18 turnovers.

The Thunder maintained a double-digit lead in the third quarter, reaching a 14-point advantage at one point. But the Pacers refused to back down, chipping away at the lead with clutch three-pointers from players like Bennedict Mathurin and Jalen Smith. The Thunder took an 85-76 lead into the final quarter.

Jalen Williams’ early fourth-quarter scoring helped the Thunder extend their lead to 94-79, but the Pacers unleashed a furious comeback. A flurry of three-pointers from Myles Turner and Oshae Brissett brought them within four points. Gilgeous-Alexander responded with crucial free throws, but the Pacers continued their relentless pressure. A late three-pointer by Andrew Nembhard and a crucial basket by Jalen Smith cut the Thunder’s lead to a single point, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

With seconds remaining, Jalen Williams missed a shot, and after a scramble for the rebound, the Pacers challenged a call, maintaining possession. Gilgeous-Alexander’s final shot attempt missed, leaving the door open for Haliburton’s incredible buzzer-beater, sealing the improbable victory for Indiana. Game 2 will be played on June 9th at the Paycom Center.

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