In a thrilling rematch of last season’s NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 141-135 after two intense overtime periods. The game was a hard-fought battle from start to finish, with both teams trading big shots. For the Thunder, this was their second straight double-overtime game to start the season, showcasing their resilience.
The key difference in this marathon game was the spectacular performance of Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored a career-high 55 points. While both teams were missing important players, the Thunder’s depth and SGA’s incredible scoring were ultimately too much for the Pacers to handle.
🤕 Both Teams Battle Through Injuries
This early-season matchup saw both teams dealing with significant player absences. The Thunder were without several key contributors, including Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace. Coach Mark Daigneault emphasized a “no excuses” mindset, and the team’s depth was on full display. Role players like Ajay Mitchell (26 points) and Aaron Wiggins (23 points) stepped up with crucial scoring.
The Pacers faced even bigger challenges. They are starting the season without their MVP, Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the year. They also miss T.J. McConnell and Myles Turner, who is now with another team. Their problems grew during the game as guard Andrew Nembhard left with an injury, and three other players, including Bennedict Mathurin, fouled out. In the final moments, the Thunder’s well-rounded roster proved to be the deciding factor.
🌟 Mathurin Shines for the Pacers
With so many key players out, the Pacers needed someone to step up, and Bennedict Mathurin answered the call. The young guard had a fantastic game, leading his team with 36 points and 11 rebounds. He played with great energy and was the main reason Indiana was able to push the defending champions into two overtimes.
Mathurin was aggressive all night, getting to the free-throw line 17 times. He provided the perfect scoring support for his teammate Pascal Siakam. However, his impressive night was cut short when he fouled out early in the second overtime, leaving the Pacers without their main offensive weapon when they needed him most.
🏆 SGA Delivers a Masterpiece Performance
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showed everyone why he is the reigning MVP. He put on an offensive clinic, scoring a career-best 55 points to lead his team to victory. SGA was unstoppable, consistently getting to his favourite spots on the floor and drawing fouls. He made 23 of his 26 free-throw attempts, which frustrated the Pacers’ defense and put them in foul trouble early.
Beyond his scoring, SGA also contributed eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals while shooting efficiently. His coach, Mark Daigneault, praised his constant desire to improve and his ability to take care of the ball. With just five turnovers in over 92 minutes of play this season, SGA continues to perform at an elite level.
❤️ A Tribute to a Pacers Legend
Before the game began, there was a special moment to honour Nancy Leonard, an important figure in the Pacers’ history who passed away in September. She was the wife of the team’s legendary coach, Bobby “Slick” Leonard, but her contributions went far beyond that.
Nancy was one of the first female executives in the NBA and played a huge role in the team’s success and survival. She helped start the team’s dance squad and was instrumental in a telethon that raised the money needed to keep the Pacers in business and help them join the NBA. The heartfelt tribute was a touching reminder of her lasting legacy with the franchise.
