Epic Comeback: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35-Point Surge Lifts Thunder Over Pacers in Stunning Fourth-Quarter Turnaround

Kristen Harris

By Kristen HarrisPublished June 14, 2025

Illustration of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading a dramatic comeback in Game 4 of the NBA Finals (AI-generated, non-realistic illustration). Credit: Ideogram.

The 2025 NBA Finals have taken an exhilarating turn, as the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers engage in a battle that has captivated fans worldwide. Game 4 saw a remarkable performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the Thunder to a dramatic comeback victory. This game not only tied the series at 2-2 but also demonstrated the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball. As the teams head back to Oklahoma City, both sides are eager to seize the advantage in what has become a thrilling championship series. Let’s delve into the critical moments and key players that have defined this matchup.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Unstoppable Force

In an unforgettable display of resilience and skill, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander proved why he is one of the NBA’s rising stars. Scoring 15 of his 35 points in the last four minutes of the game, Shai was the catalyst for the Thunder’s fourth-quarter surge. Despite facing a 10-point deficit, his relentless drive and determination to win fueled the team’s comeback. His performance was not without controversy, as some late-game calls went in his favor, drawing ire from the Pacers. Nevertheless, Shai’s ability to stay composed under pressure and deliver clutch plays underscores his value to the team. His leadership and prowess on the court are setting the stage for a potentially legendary career.

The Pacers’ Struggle in the Clutch

Despite a strong start and maintaining a lead for much of the game, the Indiana Pacers faltered when it mattered most. Tyrese Haliburton, who has been a key player for Indiana throughout the playoffs, was unable to replicate his previous heroics. With the game hanging in the balance, he missed crucial shots and struggled to create opportunities for his teammates. Additionally, Pascal Siakam’s silence in the fourth quarter compounded the Pacers’ woes, leaving them without a reliable option to counter the Thunder’s late-game push. As the series progresses, Indiana will need to address these issues and find ways to maintain composure in high-pressure situations if they hope to reclaim the upper hand.

Alex Caruso’s Championship Experience

Alex Caruso brought his championship pedigree to the forefront, delivering a stellar performance when the Thunder needed it most. Coming off the bench, Caruso scored 20 points and recorded five steals, playing a pivotal role in Oklahoma City’s defensive strategy. While his inbounds passing requires refinement, his contributions on both ends of the court were invaluable. Caruso’s ability to impact the game in various ways, whether through scoring, defense, or hustle plays, exemplifies the depth and versatility of the Thunder roster. His experience and tenacity in the Finals are proving to be a critical asset as Oklahoma City aims to capture the championship.

Momentum Shift: Thunder’s Advantage

With the series now tied, the Thunder have regained home-court advantage and are seemingly in control. The momentum of their Game 4 victory has injected confidence into the team, as players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren rediscover their form. Williams’ 27-point performance and Holmgren’s dominance on the boards highlight the Thunder’s potential to dictate the flow of the series. As the teams prepare for the next matchup, Oklahoma City’s ability to maintain this momentum will be crucial. Their resilience and unity in overcoming adversity have been tested, and these experiences will serve them well in the games to come.

As the 2025 NBA Finals continue, the stage is set for an epic showdown between two determined teams. The Thunder’s dramatic comeback in Game 4 has redefined the series, while the Pacers are eager to respond and reclaim their position. With both teams showcasing remarkable talent and tenacity, the upcoming games promise to deliver more nail-biting action. As fans eagerly await the outcome, one question lingers: Who will rise to the occasion and seize the NBA championship in this fiercely contested series?

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Kristen Harris

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kristen is a seasoned writer with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape our world. With a background in journalism and the humanities, she brings a thoughtful, inquisitive approach to everything she writes—whether it’s a deep dive into global events, a personal take on lifestyle trends, or an exploration of emerging scientific ideas. Her curiosity knows no bounds, and she thrives on connecting seemingly unrelated subjects in meaningful ways.

9 comments

  • benjamin

    Looks like the Thunder are back in business! Who else thinks they have the momentum now?

  • Anyone else think the refs were a little too friendly to the Thunder in those final minutes? Just saying! 🤔

  • ElizabethCelestial

    Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a legend in the making! Can’t wait to see how he plays in game 5.

  • Mackenzie

    Do you think Pascal Siakam will bounce back in the next game? The Pacers really need his presence on the court.

  • Abigail_Destiny

    OMG, this series is turning out to be more exciting than I expected. Can’t wait for Game 5! 💪

  • Aubrey_Ember

    Shai was a beast out there! Is there any stopping this guy when he goes into beast mode? 😮

  • AnthonyEssence

    Did anyone else notice Tyrese Haliburton’s struggles in the fourth quarter? What do you think went wrong for him?

  • Alex Caruso really knows how to deliver when it counts. Those 20 points and five steals were crucial! Thanks for the clutch plays, Caruso!

  • Cameron4

    Wow, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was absolutely on fire! Do you think he can maintain this level of performance for the rest of the series? 🔥

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