Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: *Hoops Tonight - How Haliburton, McConnell & Mathurin ENERGIZED Pacers in NBA Finals Game 3 win vs. SGA & Thunder
Release Date: June 13, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Jason delves deep into the pivotal moments of Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Focusing on the standout performances of Tyrese Haliburton, T.J. McConnell, and Bennedict Mathurin, Jason provides a comprehensive analysis of how these players energized the Pacers to secure a crucial victory over Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and the Thunder.

2. Key Highlights and Analysis

a. Course Correction Segment [04:50 – 16:41]

Jason introduces the "Course Correction" segment, spotlighting T.J. McConnell and Ben Matheran for their exceptional performances off the bench. He shares a personal anecdote about his early interactions with McConnell during his college days at the University of Arizona, emphasizing McConnell's competitive spirit and athleticism.

Notable Quote:

"TJ is one of the apex competitors you'll meet. His intense competitive energy is a driving force behind his 10-year NBA career."
[07:25]

b. Game 3 Breakdown [16:41 – 41:35]

Jason breaks down the critical runs that led to the Pacers' victory:

• Early Second Quarter Run (25-10): Primarily driven by T.J. McConnell’s aggressive drives and playmaking, culminating in key assists like the one to Pascal Siakam for an easy layup.

  Quote:

  "McConnell’s straight-line speed and directional changes made him a nightmare to defend, consistently creating open shots for his teammates."
  [22:10]

• Early Fourth Quarter Run (23-11): Led by Bennedict Mathurin’s scoring prowess, including a spectacular "AND one" floater and clutch three-pointers that shifted the momentum firmly in Indiana’s favor.

  Quote:

  "Mathurin’s ability to rise and shoot gave the Pacers the scoring boost they needed when it mattered most."
  [30:45]

c. Defensive Strategies and Fatigue Factor [25:00 – 35:00]

Jason highlights the Pacers' defensive adjustments in the fourth quarter, focusing on:

• Ball Pressure and Denials: Indiana’s aggressive defense led to multiple turnovers, particularly affecting the Thunder's ability to execute their pick-and-roll strategies effectively.

  Quote:

  "The Pacers’ ball pressure and denials fatigued the Thunder, making it increasingly difficult for them to maintain their offensive efficiency."
  [29:15]

• Oklahoma City’s Fatigue: Jason notes that the Thunder appeared visibly tired in the latter stages of the game, which contributed to their defensive lapses and inability to stop key Pacers’ runs.

  Quote:

  "SA and the Thunder looked exhausted down the stretch, unable to sustain their early momentum against Indiana’s relentless defense."
  [34:50]

d. Player Performances and Impact [35:00 – 41:35]

• Tyrese Haliburton (TH): Jason discusses Haliburton’s improved shooting and decision-making, which provided the Thunder with a scoring option, though not enough to overcome Indiana’s balanced attack.

  Quote:

  "Haliburton found his rhythm in Game 3, making crucial shots that kept the Thunder competitive, but Indiana’s depth proved too much."
  [38:20]

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA): While SGA had a solid game, the collective effort from the Pacers overshadowed his individual performance.

  Quote:

  "SGA did well, but basketball is a team sport, and the Pacers demonstrated why they’re champions with seven players averaging double figures."
  [40:00]

3. Implications for the Series

Jason concludes by discussing the significance of Game 3's outcome:

• Series Momentum: Indiana’s victory in Game 3 shifts the momentum in their favor, showcasing their depth and versatility as a team.

  Quote:

  "Winning Game 3 puts the Pacers in a strong position to close out the series, especially with the way they’ve showcased their balanced scoring and defensive prowess."
  [40:30]

• Thunder’s Response: Oklahoma City will need to address their fatigue and turnovers to counter Indiana’s balanced attack in the upcoming games.

  Quote:

  "The Thunder must tighten their defense and reduce turnovers if they hope to stay in this series against a hungry Pacers squad."
  [41:00]

4. Conclusion

Jason wraps up the episode by praising the Pacers for their exceptional performance and balanced team effort. He expresses optimism for Indiana’s chances in the series while acknowledging the Thunder’s potential to bounce back with strategic adjustments.

Final Quote:

"The Pacers have set the tone for the rest of the series with their depth and teamwork. It’s going to take a concerted effort from the Thunder to turn the tides in the next games."
[41:20]

Stay tuned for the next episode as The Herd with Colin Cowherd continues to provide in-depth analysis and commentary on the unfolding NBA Finals.