Tyrese Haliburton called for resilience from the Indiana Pacers after their narrow loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, which tied the series at 2-2. The Thunder erased a 10-point deficit late in the third quarter to secure a 111-104 victory, propelled by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35 points, 15 of which came in the decisive fourth quarter. With Game 5 set for Monday in Oklahoma City, Haliburton urges his team to respond strongly in this critical moment of the series.

Game 4 Breakdown: Pacers’ Struggles in Final Quarter Cost Them the Lead

The Pacers held their first double-digit advantage in the Finals late in the third quarter and entered the last period ahead for the first time all series, but could not hold off Gilgeous-Alexander’s late surge. Indiana was outscored 31-17 in the final frame, ultimately allowing the Thunder to reclaim home-court advantage. Haliburton stressed the importance of bouncing back quickly after such a setback.

As a team, you have to be ready to respond,

Haliburton said.

You’ve just got to be able to respond when your back is against the wall, and that’s where we are right now. That’s a frustrating loss, but as a group, I still have a lot of confidence in ourselves.

Defensive Efforts Targeting Gilgeous-Alexander and Team Adjustments

Andrew Nembhard acknowledged the challenge faced in containing the Thunder’s leading scorer, emphasizing their collective defensive efforts to disrupt him.

We just did our job of being pests, playing hard, trying to mix different guys and just make it as tough as possible on him.

Despite their intensity, the Pacers were unable to fully contain Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact in the crucial moments.

Coach Carlisle Stresses Endurance and Preparation for Remaining Games

Head coach Rick Carlisle has reminded the team that this Finals series might extend over seven games in 18 days, requiring both physical and mental stamina. With three games still to play, Carlisle underlined the importance of regrouping ahead of Monday’s game to confront the demanding schedule and competition.

It’s long. It’s arduous. But it’s the greatest opportunity going,

Carlisle stated.

This is where we’re going to have to dig in and circle the wagons and come back stronger on Monday.

Haliburton Focused on Seizing Victory in Hostile Territory for Game 5

Understanding the significance of winning on the road for the Pacers’ championship hopes, Haliburton expressed readiness to face the challenges of the Oklahoma City arena. He emphasized that securing a win in Game 5 is essential to shifting the series momentum in their favor.

We’ve got to be ready to go Game 5, going into a hostile environment,

Haliburton remarked.

We have to be ready to play. For us to win, we’re going to have to win one down there.

High Stakes Ahead as Both Teams Battle for Control Over Finals Series

The Pacers and Thunder face a crucial phase as the series stands evenly poised, with each team vying to gain the upper hand in the tightly contested NBA Finals. Success will depend on resilience, strategic adjustments, and mental toughness from both sides, setting the stage for an intense and closely fought battle in upcoming games.

Carlisle Highlights Emotional Rollercoaster and Fundamental Tests in Finals

Rick Carlisle acknowledged that the series demands strong fundamentals amid fluctuating emotions, warning the players about the highs and lows that come with championship contention.

This kind of challenge is going to have extreme highs and extreme lows.

The team’s ability to navigate these swings will likely determine their fate as the finals progress.

Pacers Maintain Confidence as They Prepare for Pivotal Game 5 Opportunity

Despite the loss and challenging circumstances, Haliburton remains confident about the team’s potential and readiness to improve. He pointed to the value of film review and focused practice during the next few days as key to refining their performance.

We’ve got a couple of days to sit on this, watch the film and see where we can get better.

This perspective reflects their commitment to overcoming adversity and pursuing victory as the series tightens.