Tyrese Haliburton led the Indiana Pacers to a dominant 108-91 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of the NBA Finals on Thursday, securing a decisive Game 7. Despite a calf injury, Haliburton helped keep the Pacers’ championship hopes alive as they prepare to face the Thunder for the title. This matchup marks the first NBA Finals series to reach seven games since 2016, signaling an intense battle on the horizon.
Fans Celebrate the Return of a Full Seven-Game NBA Finals
The NBA community expressed excitement as the Thunder-Pacers Finals extended to a Game 7, with many sharing their enthusiasm online. Social media buzzed with comments celebrating the return of a winner-takes-all finale, highlighting the competitiveness and spectacle of the series. The last time the Finals went the distance was when the Cleveland Cavaliers clinched their maiden title against the Golden State Warriors.
“Best two words in sports,” a fan celebrated.
“Must see TV,” one fan pointed out.
“FINALS GAME 7 IS FINALLY BACK,” another fan said.
“Game is about to be nuts,” another fan said.
“Figured we’d get 7 games here! Niiiiiice!!!!” one fan wrote.
“Best finals since 2021 argue with a wall,” a fan added.
Haliburton’s Determination to Play through Injury
Prior to Game 6, Haliburton’s participation was uncertain because of a calf strain he suffered in the previous game. He communicated his commitment to playing as long as medical guidance allowed. Speaking with reporters days before the game, Haliburton emphasized his competitive spirit and trust in the team’s medical staff to manage his injury safely.
“I think I have to be as smart as I want to be. Have to understand the risks, ask the right questions. I’m a competitor. I want to play. I’m going to do everything in my power to play. That’s just what it is.”
“I have a lot of trust in our medical staff. I have a lot of trust in our organization to make the right decision. I think there’s been many situations through the course of my career where they’ve trusted me on my body. … I want to be out there. That’s the plan.”
Key Contributions Behind Pacers’ Win in Game 6
Haliburton’s impact on the court was evident despite the injury, scoring 14 points including three successful three-point shots, along with five assists and two steals in 23 minutes. Supporting his effort were Obi Toppin, who led the team with 20 points, and Andrew Nembhard, adding 17 points to the Pacers’ tally. Pascal Siakam also contributed a solid double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. On the opposing side, MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points but was unable to keep pace with Indiana’s performance.
Looking Ahead to the Decisive Game 7 in Oklahoma City
The final and decisive Game 7 is scheduled for Sunday at 8:00 p.m. ET at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. Both the Pacers and the Thunder are striving for their first NBA title, setting the stage for a historic showdown. With high stakes and star players at full tilt, fans can expect a fiercely competitive contest as the teams battle for basketball’s ultimate prize.