In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder had to deal with a harsh reality as their inability to secure the ball and a tenacious Indiana Pacers team created an exciting end.  Players and coaches were clearly irritated as a result of the Thunder’s 20 first-half turnovers, which severely hurt their prospects.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said, “They are a menace defensively,” emphasizing the fierce defensive pressure that threw off the Thunder’s rhythm.

The Pacers never gave up even when the Thunder took a 15-point lead early in the fourth quarter.  Like expert artisans, they gradually reduced the gap and edged closer to an exciting finish as they were within a few minutes of tying or even winning.

 Thunder coach Mark Daigneault openly said, “The common denominator is them,” while lauding Indiana’s unwavering determination.  “What a fantastic staff.  Give them credit for their whole playoff journey, not just tonight.  They never stop showing up, play with a lot of energy, and make the plays and shots when they count.  They were entitled to a one-point victory.

With this win, the Pacers added another chapter to their incredible playoff history. They have now come back from a deficit of more than 15 points five times in this postseason alone, which is more than any other team has done in a single NBA playoff run since 1998.

 Carlisle portrayed an image of resolve as he remarked, “We just said, ‘Let’s keep chipping away at the rock,’”  “Our men know what it takes to give ourselves a chance since they have been in these kinds of circumstances before.  In addition to being fortunate, we made the plays.

 With less than three minutes remaining, the Thunder led 108-99, but they were unable to score more than one basket as the Pacers gradually reduced the distance.

With less than two minutes remaining, Andrew Nembhard’s clutch three-pointer cut the lead to 108-105.  Later, he maintained the pressure at 110-107 with his free throws.  After that, Pascal Siakam reduced the gap to 110-109, paving the way for a thrilling conclusion.  With just over 11 seconds left, the Pacers forced NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to make a critical defensive error.

 Tyrese Haliburton calmly went up for the game-winning shot after Aaron Nesmith grabbed the rebound and gave it to him.

 Haliburton declared, “I’m confident in my ability,” with a smile on his face.  “I’ve put a ton of effort on that picture and will continue to do so.  Simply put, I’m confident about it.

Haliburton’s clutch basket was the fourth time in these playoffs that he either won a game or forced OT.

 “We never think the game is over,” Haliburton continued, his eyes gleaming with resolve.  “Never.”