The Indiana Pacers secured a 116-107 victory in Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, gaining a 2-1 lead in the series. The Pacers' strong defense and hustle in the fourth quarter forced the Thunder into mistakes and sealed the win.

Historically, the team that wins Game 3 of an NBA Finals tied 1-1 goes on to win the series 80.5% of the time. Game 4 will take place in Indianapolis on Friday.

Oklahoma City struggled in the fourth quarter, scoring only 18 points and making six of 17 shots. Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was held to just 1-of-3 shooting under the pressure of Pacers forward Pascal Siakam. Despite Gilgeous-Alexander's 24 points, he needed 20 shots and committed six turnovers.

When holding opponents to under 110 points, the Pacers boast a 24-3 record this season, including a perfect 14-0 at home. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the need for his team to play their style and impose their will to secure a win on the road.

Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton contributed 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, showing a more aggressive performance than in the previous game. However, reserve player Bennedict Mathurin emerged as the hero of the game, scoring 27 points in just 22 minutes of play.

At halftime, the Pacers held a 64-60 lead and showcased a different energy compared to previous games. They excelled in transition, scoring 17 fast-break points and dominating the bench scoring with 30 points.

Indiana's strong bench performance, led by TJ McConnell and Mathurin, helped the team secure a halftime lead. Despite a rough finish to the third quarter, the Pacers entered the final quarter with a five-point deficit but managed to outplay the Thunder in the fourth quarter.

Indiana's ability to grab offensive rebounds and capitalize on Thunder's mistakes in the final minutes allowed them to extend their lead and secure the victory. The Thunder, known for comebacks, will need to regroup to keep their title hopes alive.