Thunder Choke Against Pacers in Game 6, Face Crucial Game 7
Thunder of Hardenstein Faces Elimination After Collapse, Requires Win-or-Lose Approach
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The Oklahoma City Thunder stumbled in their first chance at an NBA Championship, losing Game 6 to the Indiana Pacers 91:108. The series now stands at 3-3, with the decisive Game 7 set for Oklahoma City on Monday (02:00 CEST, ProSieben MAXX).
In the lineup, German center Isaiah Hartenstein struggled alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the season’s MVP. Despite taking the lead for the first time in the Finals on Tuesday, the Thunder faltered, and a 10:2 lead soon became a 17:26 deficit.
Star Tyrese Haliburton, questionable due to a calf injury, delivered an improved performance, while the Pacers dominated three-point shooting. Hartenstein, Gilgeous-Alexander, and the Thunder were all behind at halftime, paralyzed by the pressure of the potential title.
The Pacers maintained control in the second half, controlling the game despite attempts by the Thunder to close the gap. Obi Toppin led Indiana with 20 points, while Gilgeous-Alexander was the Thunder's top scorer with 21. Hartenstein finished with 10 points and 4 rebounds.
Four Germans have fallen short in the NBA Finals, including Detlef Schrempf, Dirk Nowitzki, Daniel Theis, and Maximilian Kleber. Now, it's Hartenstein’s turn to prevent another defeat with Oklahoma City in their home game.
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Highlights:
- The Pacers secured a commanding Game 6 victory, with a 108-91 score.
- Obi Toppin led the Pacers with 20 points, while Andrew Nembhard contributed 17.
- Pascal Siakam had a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds for Indiana.
- Tyrese Haliburton scored 14 points despite a strained calf.
- The Pacers outscored the Thunder 36-17 in the second quarter, creating a blowout situation.
- The Thunder struggled offensively, managing only 60 points by the end of the third quarter.
- The Pacers' defense and consistent scoring runs demonstrate their resilience, having comeback from deficits throughout the season.
In this critical Game 7, home advantage and momentum will determine the 2025 NBA champion. The Thunder, led by Gilgeous-Alexander, will need to regroup and improve their offense to counter the Pacers' balanced scoring and defensive pressure.
The Oklahoma City Thunder face a critical Game 7 in the basketball playoffs, striving to prevent another NBA Finals defeat and capture the 2025 NBA Championship at home. Their key players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, will need to regroup and significantly improve their offense to outshine the Pacers' balanced scoring and defensive pressure. Meanwhile, the Pacers, who showcased their resilience with a commanding 108-91 Game 6 victory, will aim to continue their dominance in the decisive game.
