The ball goes up this Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 8:30 PM ET (9:30 PM Brasília time), for Game 3 of the NBA Finals, with the Indiana Pacers hosting the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. With the series tied at 1-1, this pivotal matchup pits two young, dynamic teams chasing their first-ever NBA title. Led by Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers aim to capitalize on home-court advantage, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder focus on their defensive prowess. Fans can catch the game live across multiple platforms, and the clash promises high stakes, tactical brilliance, and standout performances. Indianapolis is buzzing with excitement, with sold-out tickets and a city fully immersed in playoff fever.
This marks Indianapolis’ first NBA Finals appearance since 2000, when the Pacers faced the Lakers. The recent rivalry between these teams, combined with their star power, sets the stage for a thrilling Game 3. Weather forecasts predict pleasant conditions, enhancing the experience for fans at the arena and in nearby watch parties.
- Game highlights: Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander lead their teams with stellar playoff averages.
- Recent history: The Thunder swept the Pacers in the regular season, but Indiana stole Game 1 with a clutch finish.
- Fan atmosphere: Indianapolis is decked out in Pacers gear, with local pride at an all-time high.
Game 3 is a critical turning point, with the Pacers looking to leverage home support and the Thunder aiming to regain momentum on the road. The intensity of the playoffs ensures a must-watch showdown.
Live broadcast and streaming options
Fans in Brazil and beyond have plenty of ways to watch Game 3. In Brazil, Band TV offers free-to-air coverage with Rômulo Mendonça narrating and Ricardo Bulgarelli on commentary. ESPN provides cable TV broadcasts with full pre- and post-game analysis. Streaming options include Disney+, which delivers high-quality video across devices like smartphones and smart TVs. The NBA League Pass, the league’s official platform, streams the game with English and Portuguese commentary, plus real-time stats and replays. Amazon Prime Video also carries the game with superior image quality. Bars and restaurants in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are expected to draw crowds, creating a lively atmosphere for fans.
The NBA’s growing popularity in Brazil is evident, with the League Pass reporting a 20% surge in viewership during the 2025 playoffs. Multi-platform access ensures fans can follow every moment, no matter their location.
Probable lineups for the matchup
Barring last-minute changes, both teams are expected to stick with their starting fives. The Thunder, coached by Mark Daigneault, face challenges with injuries: Chet Holmgren remains sidelined, along with Adam Flagler, Nikola Topic, and Alex Ducas. Alex Caruso’s status is questionable, potentially affecting defensive rotations. The Thunder’s likely lineup is:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
- Luguentz Dort
- Jalen Williams
- Isaiah Hartenstein
- Cason Wallace
The Pacers, led by Rick Carlisle, are monitoring Tyrese Haliburton, who is expected to play despite minor muscle discomfort. Isaiah Jackson is out with an Achilles injury. Indiana’s probable lineup includes:
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Andrew Nembhard
- Bennedict Mathurin
- Pascal Siakam
- Myles Turner
Both teams rely heavily on their stars. Gilgeous-Alexander averages 30.6 points per game in the playoffs, while Haliburton’s playmaking shines with over 9 assists per game.
Head-to-head history
The Thunder hold an edge in recent matchups. During the 2024-25 regular season, Oklahoma City won both games against Indiana, with Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 45 and 33 points. In the playoffs, however, the Pacers struck first, winning Game 1 by 111-110 on a Haliburton buzzer-beater. The Thunder bounced back in Game 2 with a commanding victory, leveling the series.
Since 1990, the teams have met 98 times, with the Thunder leading 53-45. This is their first playoff encounter in a Finals setting, adding a fresh chapter to their rivalry. The average combined score in their last five games is 218.3 points, suggesting tight, high-scoring battles.
Last five games for each team
Both teams have shown playoff resilience. Here are their results from the last five games before Game 3:
- Oklahoma City Thunder:
- Win vs. Timberwolves (125-93, Western Conference Finals)
- Win vs. Timberwolves (108-101, Western Conference Finals)
- Win vs. Timberwolves (115-107, Western Conference Finals)
- Loss vs. Pacers (110-111, Finals Game 1)
- Win vs. Pacers (118-104, Finals Game 2)
- Indiana Pacers:
- Win vs. Knicks (125-108, Eastern Conference Finals)
- Loss vs. Knicks (109-114, Eastern Conference Finals)
- Win vs. Knicks (118-110, Eastern Conference Finals)
- Win vs. Thunder (111-110, Finals Game 1)
- Loss vs. Thunder (104-118, Finals Game 2)
The Pacers have staged five comebacks from 15+ point deficits in the playoffs, a record in the last 27 years. The Thunder, meanwhile, boast a 17-2 record in playoff games following a loss.
Officiating crew
The NBA assigned a seasoned trio for Game 3. Scott Foster, known for his strict calls, leads as the head referee, joined by Lauren Holtkamp and Ed Malloy. The Replay Center will assist with controversial calls, ensuring accuracy in this high-stakes game. Foster’s history with these teams shows minimal technical fouls, suggesting a smoothly officiated contest.
Weather forecast for Indianapolis
Indianapolis is set for ideal game-day conditions on June 11. Temperatures will range from 64°F to 72°F, with partly cloudy skies and 50% humidity. Light winds of up to 5 mph and no rain ensure a pleasant experience for fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and outdoor watch parties. The electric atmosphere inside the 17,923-capacity arena will amplify the stakes.
Tickets and arena vibe
Tickets for Game 3 sold out quickly, with resale prices ranging from $80 for upper-level seats to $700 for courtside views. The Pacers’ passionate fanbase is expected to pack Gainbridge Fieldhouse, creating a challenging environment for the Thunder. Indianapolis is draped in team colors, with local vendors selling Haliburton and Siakam jerseys, fueling the Finals frenzy.
Fun facts about the matchup
Game 3 is rich with intriguing tidbits:
- This is the second Finals appearance for both franchises: the Thunder fell in 2012, and the Pacers lost in 2000.
- Haliburton was voted the NBA’s “most overrated” player by peers but has silenced critics with his playoff leadership.
- The Thunder lead the playoffs in defensive efficiency, allowing just 102 points per game.
- Indianapolis, dubbed the “basketball capital” of the U.S., lives up to its nickname during the Finals.
The coaching matchup adds intrigue. Carlisle’s veteran savvy contrasts with Daigneault’s innovative approach, with the former emphasizing pace and the latter prioritizing fast breaks.
Predictions for Game 3
Game 3 is expected to be a close contest, with the Pacers slightly favored due to home advantage. Betting odds list Indiana at 2.49 and the Thunder at 1.52, per Betnacional. Haliburton’s playmaking and the Thunder’s defensive intensity will likely decide the outcome. Analysts predict a tight game, with key moments hinging on star performances.
Coaches and game plans
Rick Carlisle, the Pacers’ coach, brings playoff pedigree, having won a title with the Mavericks in 2011. His game plan centers on Haliburton’s orchestration and team ball movement. Mark Daigneault, the Thunder’s rising star, earned the 2024-25 Coach of the Year award and relies on stifling defense and Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring. Their tactical chess match will be a highlight.
Players to watch
Beyond Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander, keep an eye on Pascal Siakam, the Eastern Conference Finals MVP, who averages 22 points and 8 rebounds. For the Thunder, Jalen Williams has emerged as a clutch scorer. The rebounding duel between Myles Turner and Isaiah Hartenstein could also swing the game.