Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered an unforgettable clutch performance in Game 4, scoring 15 of his 35 points in the final minutes.
- The OKC Thunder‘s stunning 111-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers ties the NBA Finals 2025 at 2-2.
- This pivotal win showcases the Thunder‘s resilience and sets the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the series.
The NBA Finals 2025 took a dramatic turn last night as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a performance for the ages in Game 4. His clutch performance powered the OKC Thunder to a remarkable 111-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers, evening the series at two games apiece. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement, a testament to the young superstar’s burgeoning leadership and the Thunder‘s unwavering belief.
The game, held in Indianapolis, saw the Indiana Pacers controlling much of the early proceedings, holding a 10-point lead in the second half. The energy in Gainbridge Fieldhouse was palpable, with the Pacers seemingly on the verge of taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. However, the narrative shifted dramatically in the fourth quarter, thanks almost entirely to the brilliance of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Architect of the Comeback
When the OKC Thunder needed him most, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander answered the call with an emphatic roar. He poured in 15 of his game-high 35 points in the final 4:38, orchestrating a decisive 16-7 run to close out the game. His ability to consistently get to the free-throw line, hitting all 10 of his attempts for the night, proved instrumental in stopping the clock and chipping away at the Pacers’ lead. Every drive, every pull-up jumper, felt like a dagger to the Pacers‘ aspirations.
“He definitely showed who he is tonight,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault remarked after the game, perfectly encapsulating the magnitude of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander‘s impact. It was a display of sheer will and skill, a performance that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of NBA Finals history.
A Look at SGA’s Game 4 Dominance
Beyond the raw point total, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander‘s all-around game in Game 4 was exceptional. He finished with 35 points on 12-of-24 shooting from the field, complemented by three rebounds and three steals. While the team struggled with assists (a season-low 11), SGA’s offensive burden was undeniable, and he consistently found ways to score or draw fouls when his team needed a basket.
This kind of individual brilliance in the NBA Finals harks back to legendary clutch performances seen from the likes of Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant. It’s in these moments, on the biggest stage, that true superstars solidify their legacy, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is rapidly cementing his.
The Thunder’s Resilient Response
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the undisputed star, the OKC Thunder‘s collective resilience cannot be overlooked. They battled on the boards, securing a 43-33 rebounding advantage, including a crucial 12-7 edge on the offensive glass that led to vital second-chance points. Their disciplined defense forced 15 Pacers turnovers, disrupting Indiana’s rhythm and preventing them from extending their lead. The Thunder also showed tremendous composure from the free-throw line, sinking 34 of 38 attempts (89.5%), a stark contrast to the Pacers‘ 25-of-33 (75.8%) effort.
This victory is particularly significant as it marks only the second “clutch” game the Indiana Pacers have lost this postseason, a testament to the Thunder‘s ability to perform under immense pressure. The series now shifts back to Oklahoma City for Game 5, with momentum firmly on the Thunder‘s side.
The Series Ahead: A Seven-Game Thriller?
With the NBA Finals 2025 now knotted at 2-2, the stage is set for a truly captivating finish. Both teams have shown their strengths and weaknesses, but the emergence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as a consistent fourth-quarter closer gives the OKC Thunder a formidable weapon. The Pacers will need to devise new defensive strategies to contain him, while also finding ways to generate more consistent offense in the face of the Thunder‘s improving defense. “ESPN’s full Game 4 recap and analysis”.
“OKC Thunder’s Path to the Finals”.
The series has been highly entertaining, characterized by intense competition and dramatic swings. It now feels increasingly likely that this NBA Finals will go the distance, a thrilling seven-game battle for the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an epic conclusion. “NBA Finals Historical Records“.
What was your personal favorite clutch moment from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in Game 4, and how do you think it impacts the rest of the NBA Finals series?
FAQs
1. How many points did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander score in Game 4 of the NBA Finals?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a game-high 35 points in Game 4, with 15 of those coming in the crucial fourth quarter.
2. What was the final score of Game 4 between the OKC Thunder and Indiana Pacers?
The OKC Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 111-104 in Game 4, evening the NBA Finals series at 2-2.
3. How did the OKC Thunder manage their comeback in Game 4?
The OKC Thunder staged a remarkable comeback, fueled by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander‘s late-game heroics and a strong defensive effort in the fourth quarter, overcoming a 10-point second-half deficit.
