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In a preseason matchup that felt anything but meaningless, the Oklahoma City Thunder rallied from a 20-point hole to defeat the Indiana Pacers 114-112 in overtime. The game, played in Oklahoma City, served as a dress rehearsal for both teams, but the intensity and emotion suggested otherwise.
From the opening tip, the Pacers came out with a purpose. Tyrese Haliburton, playing in Oklahoma City for the first time since tearing his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, was on a mission. He scorched the nets for 24 first-half points, helping Indiana build a 33-25 lead after the first quarter and extend it to 20 points early in the second. Haliburton's performance was a mix of redemption and revenge, as he looked to exorcise the demons of that fateful Game 7.
But the Thunder, knowing this was likely their final tune-up before the games start counting, flipped a switch. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, OKC closed the first half on a furious 27-9 run, cutting the deficit to 61-59 at the break. The two All-NBA talents continued their assault in the third quarter, helping the Thunder take an 85-85 tie into the final frame.
With both teams emptying their benches in the fourth, the game turned into a gritty, defensive struggle. Kenrich Williams and James Johnson exchanged words after a hard foul, leading to Williams drilling a side-step three in Johnson's face. The Thunder bench erupted, but the celebration was short-lived as head coach Mark Daigneault was hit with a technical foul. The teams traded big shots down the stretch, with Brooks Barnhizer's hook shot putting OKC up 100-98 with 35 seconds left. Kobe Brown answered with a driving layup and drew a foul, but missed the go-ahead free throw, sending the game to overtime tied at 100.
Overtime brought a mix of excitement and concern. Just a minute in, Thunder rookie Oweh suffered a non-contact leg injury that appeared serious, as teammates carried him to the locker room without putting any weight on his right leg. The injury cast a pall over the proceedings, but the game continued. With the score tied at 112 and a minute left, Zhaire Smith, who had been on ice most of the preseason, scored seven of his points in OT, including the go-ahead pull-up jumper. The Thunder held on for the 114-112 win.
Key Analysis
The Thunder's slow start is a minor concern, but their ability to flip the switch and erase a 20-point deficit is a testament to their resilience and depth. Gilgeous-Alexander looked in midseason form, scoring 15 points on 5-of-6 shooting with six assists, while Williams added 16 points and four rebounds. Jared McCain provided a spark off the bench with 20 points, and Aday Mara continued his impressive preseason with 10 points, four rebounds, and three blocks.
For the Pacers, Haliburton's performance was a bright spot, but the team will need to tighten up its defense after allowing the Thunder to shoot 48% from the field. Ivica Zubac had a strong all-around game with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists. The injury to Oweh is a major concern, and the team will await further evaluation.
Ultimately, the final score is meaningless in the preseason, but the Thunder's ability to overcome adversity and the continued development of their young core are promising signs. As the regular season approaches, OKC looks ready to build on last year's success.
Originally reported by yahoo.