Pacers Stun Defending Champions Thunder in Nail-Biting NBA Clash
In a dramatic showdown that captivated basketball fans, the Indiana Pacers delivered a major upset by defeating the league-leading Oklahoma City Thunder 117-114 on Saturday, January 24, 2026 (Philippine time). The game, held at the Thunder's home court in Oklahoma, marked the first meeting between the two teams since they faced off in last season's NBA Finals.
A Season of Contrasts: Thunder's Dominance Meets Pacers' Struggle
The matchup highlighted stark differences in the current NBA season. The Thunder, reigning champions, entered the game with an impressive 37-9 record, solidifying their top position in the league. In contrast, the Pacers have been languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a disappointing 11-35 win-loss slate.
This struggle is largely attributed to the absence of their superstar, Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon during Game 7 of last season's NBA Finals. His injury has left the Pacers grappling to find their footing without their key player.
Gilgeous-Alexander's Heroics Not Enough for Thunder
Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put on a spectacular performance for the Thunder, scoring a game-high 47 points in a valiant effort to secure victory. His efforts nearly paid off, as he managed to tie the game at 114-115 with just 7.8 seconds remaining on the clock.
However, the Pacers' resilience shone through in the final moments. Jarace Walker, selected fifth overall by Indiana, stepped up to the free-throw line and calmly sank two crucial shots, sealing the hard-fought win for his team.
Pacers' Balanced Attack Secures Road Victory
The Pacers' triumph was a collective effort, with multiple players contributing significantly to the scoreboard. Andrew Nembhard led the charge with an impressive double-double of 27 points and 11 assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. Jarace Walker added 26 points, while Pascal Siakam chipped in with 21 points, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive approach.
Walker emphasized the importance of this victory, stating, "Going out how we did last year, it was definitely circled on the calendar and it was a great team win." His comments reflect the team's motivation to avenge their previous season's loss and build momentum moving forward.
This unexpected win serves as a significant morale booster for the Pacers, proving that even without their star player, they can compete against the league's best. For the Thunder, it's a reminder that no game can be taken lightly in the highly competitive landscape of the NBA.
