Thunder Edge Pacers 141-135 in 2OT: SGA's Career-High 55 Powers OKC

In a thrilling rematch of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 141-135 in double overtime at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Thursday night. The game showcased the resilience of both teams and marked a historic performance by Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Gilgeous-Alexander's Record-Breaking Night

The reigning MVP delivered a masterclass performance, scoring a career-high 55 points on 15-of-31 shooting from the field. More impressive was his efficiency at the free-throw line, where he converted 23 of 26 attempts while adding eight rebounds, five assists, two steals, and one block across 45 minutes of action.

"The reigning MVP reached 50 for the fifth time, tying Russell Westbrook for most by a Thunder player," according to ESPN's game recap. This achievement places Gilgeous-Alexander in elite company within the franchise's history.

After a relatively quiet first half with 21 points, SGA exploded in the second half and overtime periods. His decisive flurry to open the second overtime proved crucial, as he continuously attacked the basket and drew fouls while the Pacers struggled to contain his offensive repertoire.

Supporting Cast Steps Up for Oklahoma City

While Gilgeous-Alexander stole the headlines, the Thunder received significant contributions from their supporting cast. Second-year guard Ajay Mitchell posted a career-best 26 points on 9-of-19 shooting, adding four assists and converting all eight of his free-throw attempts. Mitchell's performance was particularly impressive given his limited playing time this season.

Aaron Wiggins also made his presence felt with 23 points and nine rebounds, connecting on 5-of-9 three-pointers. His perimeter shooting provided crucial spacing when the Pacers attempted to collapse on Gilgeous-Alexander's drives. Isaiah Hartenstein dominated the glass with 14 rebounds, helping Oklahoma City maintain possession advantages during critical stretches.

Pacers' Valiant Effort Falls Short

Despite the loss, Indiana displayed remarkable fight against the defending champions. Bennedict Mathurin led the Pacers with 36 points and 11 rebounds before fouling out in the first overtime period. His aggressive offensive approach kept Indiana competitive throughout regulation.

Pascal Siakam complemented Mathurin with 32 points and 15 rebounds. The veteran forward's clutch jumper over Chet Holmgren with 6.5 seconds remaining in regulation sent the game to overtime, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Siakam shot 12-of-25 from the field and connected on 3-of-6 three-point attempts.

The Pacers also received valuable contributions from Obi Toppin (20 points), Ben Sheppard (15 points), and Jarace Walker (13 points). However, the absence of Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered an Achilles tear during Game 7 of last season's NBA Finals, and backup point guard T.J. McConnell significantly impacted Indiana's rotation.

Injury Concerns Mount

The Pacers suffered another blow when starting point guard Andrew Nembhard exited with left shoulder soreness in the first half and did not return. Ben Sheppard filled in admirably, starting the second half and finishing with solid numbers across 39 minutes.

Historic Double Overtime Start

The Thunder became the first team in NBA history to play double overtime games in their first two contests to begin a season. Oklahoma City previously defeated the Houston Rockets 125-124 in double overtime during their season opener on Tuesday night.

This grueling schedule tests the Thunder's depth and conditioning early in the campaign. Coach Mark Daigneault's rotation has been challenged by injuries to key players including Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, Kenrich Williams, and Isaiah Joe. Cason Wallace missed Thursday's game with a knee injury.

Game Flow and Key Moments

The contest featured remarkable balance throughout regulation. Neither team led by more than seven points, and the game saw 12 ties and eight lead changes. The Pacers took a 25-22 advantage after the first quarter before Oklahoma City responded with a 32-22 second-quarter performance to grab a 54-47 halftime lead.

Indiana stormed back in the third quarter, outscoring the Thunder 31-27 to make it a three-point game entering the final period. The fourth quarter produced dramatic exchanges, with both teams trading baskets down the stretch.

Siakam's clutch jumper forced the first overtime at 113-113. After Mathurin's short jumper tied the score at 124 with 12.5 seconds remaining in the first overtime, Gilgeous-Alexander missed a driving shot, sending the game to a second extra period.

The officials also granted a controversial late timeout to Oklahoma City when it appeared Obi Toppin had stolen the inbound pass underneath the Thunder basket during the second overtime, drawing frustration from the Pacers' bench.

Looking Ahead

The Thunder improved to 2-0 on the season despite playing consecutive double-overtime games. They'll travel to Atlanta on Saturday to face the Hawks, hoping to avoid a third consecutive overtime contest.

The Pacers dropped to 0-1 and begin a three-game road trip at Memphis on Saturday. Indiana will need to find answers at the point guard position with both Haliburton and McConnell sidelined, placing additional pressure on Nembhard once he returns from his shoulder injury.

Statistical Highlights

The game featured 70 total fouls called on the players, plus a technical foul assessed to Pacers coach Rick Carlisle late in the second quarter. This whistle-heavy affair disrupted the flow at times but created numerous free-throw opportunities for both squads.

Oklahoma City shot 45.3% from the field (43-of-95) and 28.6% from three-point range (10-of-35), compensating with an impressive 88.2% conversion rate at the free-throw line (45-of-51). The Thunder's ability to get to the foul line proved decisive in the extra periods.

Indiana connected on 43.8% of their field goal attempts (46-of-105) and 30.2% from beyond the arc (13-of-43), while shooting 75% from the charity stripe (30-of-40). The Pacers' struggles with fouls and turnovers (14 total) prevented them from pulling away during advantageous stretches.

The attendance of 17,274 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse witnessed an instant classic between the 2025 NBA Finals opponents, though the Thunder ultimately proved too much in the extra sessions. Gilgeous-Alexander's historic performance will be remembered as one of the signature moments of the early season.