NBA Finals 2025 Game 3 Recap

Game 3 Summary: Pacers Take Control at Home

NBA Finals 2025 Game 3 recap — The Indiana Pacers took a giant step toward the championship with a hard-fought 116-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The victory gives Indiana a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, with Game 4 still to be played on home court.

Bennedict Mathurin Shines Off the Bench

Off the bench, Bennedict Mathurin provided his best playoff performance to date in his career. The 22-year-old from Canada posted 27 points, highs among bench players and a new career postseason high.

He had a great 9-of-12 on the field, 2-of-3 outside, and 7-of-8 at the line. Mathurin added 4 boards, 1 assist, and 1 block in 22 minutes, making an enormous difference on both ends of the floor.

“Staying ready just in case,” Mathurin explained after the game. “When my number gets called, I come in and try to assist my team in a win.”

Haliburton Nearly Posts Triple-Double

Tyrese Haliburton led the way once more, scoring 22 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and dishing out 11 assists. He spread Indiana’s offense with ease and confidence, especially in the second half.

“Every different guy contributed,” Haliburton said. “Ben (Mathurin) was incredible off the bench. We just kept making the right plays.”

Bench Production Gives Pacers the Edge

Mathurin shoots in Game 3. NBA Finals 2025 Game 3 recap highlights his 27 points off the bench.

Indiana’s bench depth played the determining role. Pacers’ bench outscored Oklahoma City’s second unit by 49-18. Veteran guard TJ McConnell tallied 10 points, 5 assists, and a team-leading 5 steals, which got the team moving at crucial moments.

“TJ brought a competitive thrust, and Bennedict played aggressively from the start,” Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said. “This is the way we have to win—together as a team.”

Thunder’s MVP Slows Down in Final Quarter

Oklahoma City leading scorer Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA), the 2025 league MVP, finished with 24 points and 8 rebounds but struggled to score late. He was held to 3 fourth-quarter points as Indiana’s defense tightened and fatigue seemed to become a factor.

Lacking quality bench support, the Thunder could not keep up with Indiana’s frantic pace.

Game 3 Player Stats Breakdown

Player Points Rebounds Assists Notes
B. Mathurin 27 4 1 9-12 FG, 7-8 FT, 1 block
T. Haliburton 22 9 11 Led the team offense
P. Siakam 21 6 4 Strong presence inside
T. McConnell 10 5 5 steals off the bench
S. Gilgeous-Alexander 24 8 3 points in the 4th quarter

What’s Next: Game 4 Preview

The Pacers will look to extend their lead in the series with Game 4 on Friday, June 14, at 8:30 PM ET, once again at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

“We’re not thinking about the Finals yet,” said Mathurin. “We’re just focused on winning the next game.”

A win would push Indiana ahead 3-1 in the Finals, bringing them one step closer to their first championship since joining the NBA in 1976.

Quick Highlights from Game 3

  • Mathurin scores playoff career-high 27 points
  • Haliburton nearly reached a triple-double
  • Pacers’ bench dominating Thunder’s bench 49-18
  • SGA is restricted to 3 points in the fourth quarter
  • Indiana is 10-0 after a loss since March

Game 4 Broadcast Info

📅 Date: Friday, June 14
🕣 Time: 8:30 PM ET
📍 Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
📺 Network: ABC

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