Tyrese Haliburton Channels Steph Curry Vibes in Thrilling NBA Finals Game 3 Victory

INDIANAPOLIS — After grappling with the Oklahoma City defense through two tough games, Tyrese Haliburton turned to his laptop for some inspiration. He studied the play of Stephen Curry, an NBA icon known for his ability to navigate intense physical defenses. Early in the week, Haliburton’s coach Drew Hanlen sent him a compilation of Curry’s playoff performances from the past decade, showcasing his prowess against teams from San Antonio to Boston. Inspired by Curry, Haliburton hoped to elevate his game in his first NBA Finals appearance.

Curry’s memorable performances in the Finals are well-documented, and in Game 3, it was Haliburton’s turn to shine. He ended the game with 22 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. Leading up to the game, there was a loud chorus urging Haliburton to assert himself sooner rather than later. Responding to the calls, he scored 12 points in the first half and added another seven in the third quarter. In the final quarter, as Bennedict Mathurin stepped up, Haliburton contributed three crucial assists, helping the Pacers secure a 116–107 victory over the Thunder and a 2–1 lead in the series.

“There were necessary adjustments I had to make today, and I think I managed them well,” Haliburton remarked.

Coach Rick Carlisle commented, “His approach tonight was precisely what we needed.”

As June progresses, the Pacers continue to defy expectations. Despite splitting the initial games in Oklahoma City and needing a dramatic comeback to win Game 1, they were not overwhelmed by the Thunder as many had anticipated. Now, they are just two victories away from clinching their first NBA championship. They started Game 3 trailing 15–6, but a timeout pep talk from Carlisle to shake off the nerves proved effective, according to Haliburton.

Recognizing the need to support Haliburton, the Pacers saw vital contributions from their bench in Game 3. The Thunder’s reserves had outplayed them in Game 2, but players like Mathurin, who scored 27 points, and T.J. McConnell, who added 10 points and five steals, stepped up significantly. Carlisle’s decision to tighten his rotation paid off as each player delivered.

“This embodies our team spirit,” said Carlisle. “We need everyone ready to play. It’s a collective effort, and we have to make it as challenging as possible for our opponents.”

Mathurin, sidelined by a shoulder injury during last year’s playoff run, spent those days in the training room with a tearaway calendar, marking time until his return. “I don’t just like playing basketball, I love it,” Mathurin said. “Being unable to play was tough, but now I’m back.”

Now active, McConnell has made a significant impact off the bench. His performance in Game 3 included swiping three passes and scoring six points in the second quarter alone. His defensive efforts helped limit the scoring of Cason Wallace to seven points and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to 24. McConnell consistently stepped up to make critical plays when needed.

“In a series like this, it’s crucial to excel in the small details,” Haliburton stated. “It’s not just about shooting effectively but also about managing turnovers, dominating rebounds, and making energy plays. McConnell does an exceptional job at this, consistently energizing our team and making pivotal plays.”

This Pacers team doesn’t let doubt seep in. To facilitate Haliburton, they implemented more pitches and handoffs, enhancing his ability to catch the ball in stride. After being outmatched in physicality in the first two games, they stepped up their aggression. Andrew Nembhard and Myles Turner played key defensive roles, helping force 19 turnovers from Oklahoma City and narrowly outscoring them in the paint, 50–48, in Game 3.

“They were more aggressive,” acknowledged Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. “Their sustained pressure and physicality exceeded our force in many instances during the game.”

With all eyes on him, Haliburton acknowledged hearing some of the criticism. “You might hear it on ESPN in my house,” he said, but his focus remains unshaken. He consults with Carlisle and Hanlen on areas for improvement. Indiana boasts a 20–1 record when Haliburton scores at least 20 points with 10 assists. On Wednesday, he tapped into that extra gear he knew he had.

“There will always be ups and downs,” Haliburton reflected. “I won’t consistently shoot a high volume every game. There will be games where I don’t, and finding the right balance is key. But experience is the best teacher.”

Now, just two wins shy of a historic title, Haliburton remains indifferent to external opinions. “The commentary doesn’t matter at this point,” he said. “We’re in the NBA Finals, just two wins away from a championship. I just need to stay focused, keep working, and keep moving forward.”

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