Indiana PacersOpen full analysis
Oklahoma City ThunderOpen full analysis
The Indiana Pacers edged the Oklahoma City Thunder 117–114 on January 23 at Paycom Center, surviving a dominant performance from Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 47 points. Indiana's balanced attack proved decisive: Andrew Nembhard and Jalen Walker combined for 53 points, while the Pacers' three-point barrage—16 made threes compared to Oklahoma City's seven—provided crucial spacing. Indiana shot 46.9 percent overall and dominated the glass with 51 rebounds to OKC's 41, translating to a 116.1 offensive rating versus the Thunder's 113.8. The Pacers' opening quarter explosion (39 points) set the tone early, though Oklahoma City's third-quarter surge (32 points) nearly completed a comeback. Indiana's 34 assists and turnover discipline (10 turnovers) showcased efficient ball movement despite the Thunder's strong perimeter defense. The game finished well under the 226.5 Vegas total, a low-scoring affair by modern standards. The Pacers' road victory strengthens their playoff positioning in a competitive Eastern Conference.
