Pacers Overcome Injuries to Defeat Thunder 117-114

Andrew Nembhard and Jarace Walker lead Pacers to victory in thrilling NBA matchup

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:22pm

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An abstract, neon-colored painting with rapid brushstrokes and dissolving forms, capturing the raw energy and intensity of a high-stakes basketball game.The Pacers' resilience and the Thunder's star power collide in a thrilling NBA matchup that showcases the league's competitive spirit.Oklahoma City Today

In a rematch of last season's NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-114 despite missing key players due to injuries. Andrew Nembhard scored 27 points and 11 rebounds, while Jarace Walker had a career-high 26 points, including four crucial free throws in the final 10 seconds to seal the win for the Pacers.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the Pacers and Thunder since last season's NBA Finals. The Pacers have been struggling with injuries, while the Thunder have dominated the league early on, though their momentum has slowed recently. The win shows the Pacers' resilience and depth, even without some of their star players.

The details

The Pacers were missing Bennedict Mathurin, Obi Toppin, and Quenton Jackson due to injuries, but they still managed to pull off the victory. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 47 points and Chet Holmgren's 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 blocks, mounted a late rally but ultimately fell short.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Pacers and Thunder met for the second and final time this season.

The players

Andrew Nembhard

A key player for the Indiana Pacers, he scored 27 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the game.

Jarace Walker

The Pacers' breakout star, he scored a career-high 26 points and made four crucial free throws in the final 10 seconds to secure the win.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The reigning NBA MVP, he scored 47 points for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the losing effort.

Chet Holmgren

The Thunder's talented big man, he contributed 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 blocks in the game.

Tyrese Haliburton

The Pacers' star player, who tore his Achilles tendon early in Game 7 of the NBA Finals last season.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, but the guys really stepped up and showed their resilience. Andrew and Jarace were incredible tonight.”

— Rick Carlisle, Head Coach, Indiana Pacers

“Shai played his heart out, but we just couldn't get over the hump. Hats off to the Pacers, they fought hard and deserved the win.”

— Mark Daigneault, Head Coach, Oklahoma City Thunder

What’s next

The Pacers will look to build on this win as they face the Atlanta Hawks on Monday, while the Thunder will host the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Pacers' resilience and depth, as they were able to overcome key injuries and defeat the league-leading Thunder. It sets up an interesting storyline for the rest of the season, as the Pacers try to turn their season around and the Thunder look to maintain their dominance despite recent setbacks.