Pacers’ Defense Wears Down MVP SGA in Game 3 Loss

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
June 2025

Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was limited to 3 points in the fourth quarter of Game 3, as Indiana’s aggressive defense helped the Pacers complete another comeback and reduce their NBA Finals series deficit to 2-1.
SGA was pressured 65.5 feet from the basket and blitzed 12 times—both playoff career highs—while also logging intense defensive duties. Despite fatigue signs, the MVP rejected excuses, vowing to improve with a maximum of four games left.