For Tyrese Haliburton and Indiana, it was a Game 1 of the NBA Finals to remember. This is the clutch play that gave the Indiana Pacers their big league comeback win against the Oklahoma City Thunder. With only 0.3 seconds remaining, Haliburton hit a jumper that put the Pacers ahead, sealing a 111-110 win and giving the team an early lead in the series.
Indiana’s task was particularly intimidating as they trailed by 15 in the fourth quarter. Haliburton was not just tough and purposeful but dazzling. Under great pressure, he rallied his team to first tie the game and then secure the win! This clinching bucket represented Haliburton’s fifth career game-tying or go-ahead FG in the last five seconds of a playoff game. This impressive feat puts him in a second place tie with NBA legend Reggie Miller for the most of this kind of field goal in the playoffs dating back to 1997.
Haliburton’s incredible last few seconds of the game impressed some big names in the basketball world. Earvin “Magic” Johnson commended him, saying, “I don’t think anyone plays better than the Pacers in the 4th qt!” Meanwhile, teammate PJ Washington described Haliburton’s jumper as a “big-time shot,” while Arike Ogunbowale reflected on the excitement of Haliburton’s run, calling it “the craziest run I’ve ever seen.”
The Pacers pulled off the dramatic comeback for the largest fourth quarter comeback win in history of the NBA Finals (last 50 years). Haliburton’s advocacy and activism led to this historic committed funding. Following his game-winning shot, the Pacers managed to secure a crucial stop on the Thunder’s ensuing possession, ensuring their victory and marking an impressive start to the Finals.
Haliburton’s extraordinary abilities dazzled most. This is no slouch, and so elite NBA stars such as Patrick Mahomes II, Micah Parsons, and Tyrese Maxey all came to watch his incredible opening flourish. This victory is just the beginning of a bigger win today in this game. It demonstrates Haliburton’s ability to be a game-changer on the big stage of pro basketball too.
Rick Carlisle, the new head coach of the Indiana Pacers, has been through wild comebacks like that too. Perhaps naively, he has confidence in his team’s resolve. Haliburton’s ability to deliver under pressure is a testament to his talent and determination, further solidifying his place in franchise history.
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