The Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91 in Game 6 of the NBA Finals 108 1. The Pacers’ victory forces the first Game 7 in the NBA Finals since the Cavs vs. Warriors series in 2016. Gainbridge Fieldhouse was on fire during Game 6. The fans were in full turn-up mode. There were also Pacers Alumni in the house to help cheer the current Pacers squad to victory. Some of the former Pacers who were in attendance were Reggie Miller, Mark Jackson, Stephen Jackson, and Rik Smits. Tyrese Haliburton played through an injured calf and gave an inspired effort that helped push the Pacers to victory. Haliburton spoke postgame about his team’s resolve and the Pacers’ victory.
“We just wanted to protect home court. We didn’t want to see these guys celebrate a championship on our home floor. Backs against the wall, and we just responded. Total team effort.”
Tyrese Hailburton did not lead the Pacers in scoring in Game 6. However, his inspired effort and leadership led the Pacers to victory. Hailburton scored 14 points on 5-for-12 shooting. He knocked down 3-for-7 from the three-point line. He dished out five assists and recorded two steals.
Obi Toppin scored 20 points and for 6-for-12 on shooting. He knocked down 4-for-7 from the three-point line. He knocked down 4-for-6 from the free-throw line. Toppin’s performance helped push the lead to a large margin for the Pacers, and they never relinquished it.
More Pacers Contributions
- Andrew Nembhard scored 17 points, dished out four assists, and recorded three steals.
- Pascal Siakam scored 16 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and dished out three assists.
- Aaron Nesmith scored 10 points, grabbed two rebounds, and dished out three assists.
- T.J. McConnell scored 12 points, grabbed nine rebounds, dished out six assists, and recorded four steals.
Game 7 of the NBA Finals is Sunday, 6/22. Tip-off from Oklahoma City is at 8 P.M. Eastern/ 7 P.M. Central. The game will air nationally on ABC.
