The 2025 NBA Finals arrive in Indianapolis for a crucial Game 3 between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, with the series deadlocked at 1-1. The two evenly matched sides have delivered drama and intensity in the opening fixtures, and now, with the Pacers returning to their home court for the first time in an NBA Finals game since 2000, the stakes rise even further.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been the standout figure so far, averaging 36 points per game in the series and carrying Oklahoma City with clinical shot-making and poised leadership. However, Indiana’s resilience remains their hallmark—coming from behind to snatch Game 1 and aiming to rebound from defeat once again, having gone unbeaten in the playoffs following a loss. With the Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd behind them, the Pacers will be hoping that home advantage helps neutralise the Thunder’s aggressive defence and unlocks Tyrese Haliburton’s creativity despite lingering injury concerns.
It’s not just a battle of talent—it’s a chess match of adjustments, stamina, and sheer will. The team that wins Game 3 will put themselves within striking distance of the NBA championship. Let’s dive into the full preview.
Oklahoma City Thunder at Indiana Pacers
Match Info
- NBA Finals Game 3
- Wednesday 11 June 2025 20:30 EST / 01:30 BST (12 June)
- Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, USA
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder arrive in Indianapolis with renewed belief after a commanding Game 2 performance that saw them win 123-107 and level the series. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been the heartbeat of their offence, breaking records and slicing through defences with a potent mix of finesse and fearlessness. Coach Mark Daigneault’s tactical unpredictability continues to give Oklahoma City an edge, employing hundreds of different lineup combinations across the season and leaning into both small-ball pressure and size-on-the-glass versatility.
Defensively, the Thunder have disrupted Indiana’s flow, particularly targeting Haliburton with high-intensity trapping and forcing others to step up. With confidence sky-high and a growing sense of rhythm, they’ll look to seize the series lead by replicating their efficient shooting and winning the possession battle again.
Indiana Pacers
For the Pacers, this is more than just a homecoming—this is their chance to seize control of a Finals series many thought they wouldn’t reach. Their Game 1 comeback win showed incredible character, but the issues that surfaced in Game 2 must be addressed. Indiana has struggled to assert themselves in the paint and on the boards, with Oklahoma City’s defence consistently cutting off driving lanes.
Tyrese Haliburton’s fitness is a major concern, and although he’s set to play, his ability to dictate pace and maintain composure under pressure is essential. Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner will need to offer more consistent scoring and rim protection. Coach Rick Carlisle’s message is clear: ignore the past, focus on the now. With the series returning to Indiana for Games 3 and 4, this is the moment to deliver.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Oklahoma City Thunder to win
Momentum seems to have shifted in Oklahoma City’s favour. Their adaptability, depth, and defensive tenacity—combined with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Finals breakout—gives them the upper hand, particularly if Haliburton remains limited. The Thunder’s ability to shift gears mid-game makes them a tough matchup in a pivotal Game 3.
America Bet Score Prediction
Oklahoma City 117 – 112 Indiana
Expect a closer contest than Game 2, but with the Thunder’s superior execution down the stretch and Indiana’s vulnerability in the paint, Oklahoma City are tipped to edge it in the final minutes.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Oklahoma City Thunder to win
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander over 30.5 points
- Tyrese Haliburton under 8.5 assists
- Game total over 227.5 points
- Oklahoma City to score first
- Thunder +2.5 handicap
- Pascal Siakam over 19.5 points
- SGA to hit 2+ three-pointers
- Game to be tied at halftime
- Thunder to win by 1-5 points
