2025 NBA Finals Game 3 Preview: Key Factors for Pacers vs. Thunder

As the 2025 NBA Finals continue, excitement builds in Indianapolis for Game 3, where the Indiana Pacers will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on June 12, 2025. This matchup marks the Pacers' first NBA Finals home game in 25 years, a moment steeped in historical significance as the franchise seeks to capitalize on its home-court advantage after a split in the first two games of the series.

The Pacers enter Game 3 with the series tied at 1-1 following a dramatic Game 1 victory propelled by Tyrese Haliburton's last-second shot, only to see the Thunder rebound in Game 2 with a decisive 123-107 win. The stakes are high as both teams aim to seize control of the series, with considerable implications for the Pacers, who have not seen the Finals in over two decades.

Historically, Indianapolis last hosted an NBA Finals game on June 16, 2000, when they faced the Los Angeles Lakers. On that occasion, the Pacers triumphed 120-87, but ultimately lost the series. The current series echoes that scenario, as the road team has taken the early advantage in both Games 1 and 2, similar to the Philadelphia 76ers' unexpected Game 1 victory against the Lakers in 2001, before ultimately succumbing.

### Key Factors to Watch in Game 3

1. **Pacers' Performance During SGA's Absences** The Pacers must capitalize on minutes when Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is off the court. The Thunder's net rating illustrates their resilience even in SGA's absence, with a 5.2-point advantage when he sits, compared to a staggering 16.7 points per 100 possessions when he plays. According to ESPN's advanced analytics, the Pacers outscored the Thunder by four points during the 8:26 that SGA sat in Game 1. For Indiana to succeed, they need to replicate that efficiency consistently.

2. **Haliburton's Offensive Aggressiveness** Tyrese Haliburton's shooting performance has been underwhelming in the Finals, finishing with only 13 attempts in both games. Historically, the Pacers have a 7-1 record in the playoffs when Haliburton scores 20 points or more. To mount a serious challenge to the Thunder, he must increase his shot attempts, particularly in crucial moments, and find ways to penetrate the defense effectively. As noted in a recent analysis by Bleacher Report, Haliburton’s ability to score early could set the tone for the Pacers' offense.

3. **Chet Holmgren's Defensive Versatility** Chet Holmgren’s performance in Game 2 was pivotal for the Thunder, where he demonstrated not only scoring ability but also significant defensive impact. His ability to switch defensively and guard multiple positions could prove crucial against the Pacers' varied offensive schemes. Coach Mark Daigneault praised Holmgren's contributions, stating, "His ability to adapt defensively allows us to be more aggressive and control the tempo of the game" (Daigneault, post-game press conference, June 9, 2025).

4. **Refereeing Dynamics in Gainbridge Fieldhouse** The officiating could play a significant role in Game 3, especially considering the disparities in fouls called in the previous games. The Thunder have been awarded 57 free throws compared to the Pacers' 47. As noted by Sports Illustrated, the physicality of the Thunder's defense may be viewed differently in front of the Pacers' home crowd, potentially influencing the number of fouls called. An analysis of foul patterns shows that the home crowd often sways officiating decisions, which could favor Indiana.

### Conclusion

As the Pacers prepare to face the Thunder in Game 3, several critical elements will define the outcome. The ability to exploit SGA's resting minutes, Haliburton's assertiveness in scoring, Holmgren's defensive contributions, and the impact of officiating at Gainbridge Fieldhouse will all be pivotal. With the series poised at 1-1, the stakes have never been higher for Indiana, and the home court may provide the edge they need to push ahead in the Finals. This clash not only offers a chance at championship glory but also a historic moment for a franchise eager to reclaim its place among the NBA elite.