The Oklahoma City Thunder showcased an impressive season by reaching the NBA Finals with their longest losing streak being just two games. In Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers, they faced the threat of suffering their third consecutive loss, which would have put them behind 3-1 in the series—an almost insurmountable deficit in NBA history. However, the Thunder rallied to win 111-104, tying the series at 2-2.
Coach Mark Daigneault hailed the victory as a “great blood-and-guts win,” highlighting the Thunder’s ability to outplay the traditionally clutch Pacers, who were outscored by 14 points in the fourth quarter. Despite Indiana’s success in close games, they faltered, shooting only 27.8% in the final quarter and failing to score in the last four minutes. Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who struggled earlier in the game, scored 35 points, clinching 15 of the team’s final 16 points during the critical moments. He was supported by Jalen Williams with 27 points and Chet Holmgren, who battled injuries to contribute with 14 points and 15 rebounds.
Oklahoma City adjusted their lineup to reintroduce center Isaiah Hartenstein, aiming to reinforce their defense. Despite an early scare with Holmgren’s ankle, the team managed to keep the deficit minimal at halftime. Gilgeous-Alexander was initially limited due to strategic defensive play from Indiana’s Andrew Nembhard. However, he thrived once the defensive matchups changed, leading the team to a late-game surge. This critical win was a setback for the Pacers, whose coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “there’s three games left.” Game 5 is scheduled for Monday in Oklahoma City.
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