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In game one of the NBA finals, Indiana Pacers held their nerves and snatched victory from Oklahoma City Thunder with a 111-110 win. The Thunder enjoyed the perks of home court advantage for the first two matches and they were leading by 15 points during the fourth quarter. In the final seconds, the ball was held by NBA’s most valuable player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The 26-year-old was expected to grab a two-point attempt but he failed to grab the opportunity and Pacers took advantage of the rebound and passed the ball to Tyrese Haliburton, who displayed his valiant side and drove down the court before notching up the victorious points for his team. The basket became bigger as only three seconds were left to conclude the game.
In the 2025 playoffs, it’s been fourth time when Tyrese scored in pressure situations. On three instances, he scored to win a game and once to extend the match time. After the game, Haliburton spoke to ESPN and revealed that his coach and teammates have faith in him especially during crunch situations. “We got the stop and Coach trusts us in those moments to not call timeout, trusts me in those moments. Guys trust me. Just trying to make a play. Man, basketball is fun. Winning is fun. That’s a big-time win for us," remarked the 26-year-old.
Tyrese Haliburton celebrates victory with his father
After the game, Tyrese Haliburton's father John was seen waiting for the youngster in the tunnel. When the point guard saw his father, both shared a hug and warm smile. John was one of the spectators and he relished the moment when his son snatched victory for Pacers from the jaws of defeat.
It was John’s first attendance since the first round following his act of entering the court after Indiana Pacers’ Game 5 triumph and clash with Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. His deed led to his ban from future games. Prior to Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals against the New York Knicks, the ban of John was lifted.
