In a thrilling Game 4 of the NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their resilience and determination, defeating the Indiana Pacers 111-104 to tie the series at two games apiece. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with an impressive 35 points, including 15 crucial points in the final five minutes of the game, proving pivotal in the Thunder’s comeback from a 10-point deficit.
Despite struggling with their three-point shooting, making only three from beyond the arc, the Thunder displayed a strong defensive performance that kept them in contention throughout the match. Jalen Williams also made a significant contribution with 27 points, while Chet Holmgren had a standout fourth quarter, finishing the game with 14 points and 15 rebounds. Alex Caruso was essential off the bench, adding 20 points and five steals to the Thunder’s efforts.
On the other side, the Pacers were led by Pascal Siakam, who recorded 20 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and five steals. Tyrese Haliburton chipped in with 18 points and seven assists, while Obi Toppin continued to impress as the team’s best sixth man, scoring 17 points.
The game was not only a showcase of talent but also a moment that sparked reactions across social media. Fans took to Twitter to express their excitement and draw comparisons to NBA legends. One tweet noted, “Shai drops 35 points as Thunder tie the series with a 111-104 win. We’re heading back to OKC!” Another fan remarked on Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance, saying, “Kobe type sequence by Shai here. On the road. Grind out. High pressure. Must win Finals game. Pure composed buckets.”
The historical significance of Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance was also highlighted. He became the player with the most points scored without an assist in a Finals win since Joe Fulks in 1947, who scored 37 points. The last player to achieve 35 points without an assist in the Finals was Jerry West in 1962, although that was in a losing effort.
As the game progressed, the Thunder demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, especially in the fourth quarter, where they executed a masterclass comeback. Tim Bontemps from ESPN noted, “For the second time in these playoffs, the Thunder truly had their backs against the wall, down in the fourth quarter on the road in Game 4 of a series they trailed. And, for the second time in these playoffs, the Thunder found a way to survive.”
Social media reactions continued to pour in, with fans praising the Thunder’s defensive efforts, especially Lu Dort’s lockdown defense on Haliburton in the fourth quarter. One tweet exclaimed, “Haliburton was COMPLETELY erased in the fourth by none other than Lu Dort.”
The Thunder’s victory also sparked discussions about their young core’s potential. A fan pointed out that Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Holmgren have already won more Finals games for the Thunder than Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden combined during their time in Oklahoma City.
As the series heads back to Oklahoma City, anticipation is building for Game 5. With both teams showing their strengths and weaknesses, the next game promises to be another thrilling chapter in this year’s NBA Finals. Fans are eager to see if the Thunder can continue their momentum and take the lead in the series or if the Pacers will bounce back to regain control.
In conclusion, the Thunder’s Game 4 victory not only tied the series but also solidified Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s status as a rising star in the league. As the Finals progress, the excitement among NBA fans in the United States is palpable, with each game bringing new narratives and unforgettable moments.