The Indiana Pacers secured a 108-91 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, setting up a winner-take-all Game 7 on Sunday. This win was particularly surprising, not because the Thunder dominated the series as expected, but because Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton was uncertain to play due to a calf strain he suffered in Game 5. Despite this setback, Indiana managed to extend the series with a commanding performance on the road.
Haliburton’s Injury and Performance Raise Questions Before Game 6
Details on the severity of Haliburton’s calf strain were not disclosed, but the injury clearly affected him during Game 5, where he scored only four points and missed all six of his field goal attempts in a decisive Thunder win. With his status in doubt for Game 6, many expected Oklahoma City to capitalize and conclude the finals on Indiana’s court. However, Haliburton demonstrated resilience by contributing 14 points, five assists, and two steals in the game, helping Indiana build a lead as large as 31 points and secure the upset victory.
Haliburton Vows to Play in Game 7 Despite Ongoing Discomfort
Following the win that forced a Game 7, Haliburton confirmed he would be on the court Sunday, acknowledging lingering soreness but expressing confidence in his readiness. He stated,
“I’m pretty much in the same standpoint I was before Game 6, still a little stiff, a little sore rather. Good thing I only had to play 23 minutes, so been able to get even more treatment and do more things. So, just trying to take care of it the best I can, but I’ll be ready to go for Game 7.”
Balancing Risk and Commitment: Haliburton’s Competitive Mindset
Before Game 6, Haliburton openly recognized the risks of playing with a calf injury but emphasized his desire to compete.
“I have to understand the risks, ask the right questions. But I’m a competitor. I want to play. I’m going to do everything in my power to play,”
he said. Despite the injury, he showed no hesitations in his movement on the court and regained his offensive rhythm, particularly from beyond the arc where he hit three of seven attempts. The team managed his minutes carefully; he played only seven in the second half as the Pacers controlled the tempo to keep their title hopes alive.
High Stakes Await in Game 7 with Both Teams Fighting for the Championship
All eyes will be on Tyrese Haliburton in Game 7 as Indiana seeks to continue their improbable playoff run, while the Thunder aim to rebound after a demoralizing defeat. Oklahoma City will have the benefit of a passionate home crowd at the Paycom Center, where the intensity is expected to be at its peak. Indiana has won one road game this series, largely due to a last-second Haliburton shot with 0.3 seconds remaining. However, with his calf still a concern, the Pacers cannot rely on a repeat of such late-game heroics, making his health and effectiveness even more critical in this decisive matchup. The outcome will hinge on whether Haliburton and Indiana can maintain their composure and performance under extreme pressure.