June 19 (UPI) -- Opportunistic defensive mentality, breathless effort and selfless ball movement propelled an Indiana Pacers thrashing of the Oklahoma City Thunder, tying the NBA Finals on Thursday in Indianapolis and forcing a Game 7.
"It's a one-game series now," Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton said on the ABC broadcast. "We believe. We have a lot of faith in this group. We'll take care of our bodies and get ready.
"Game 7 of the NBA Finals, what more could you ask for?"
Pacers players -- who staved off elimination -- forced 21 turnovers while limiting the Thunder to just 14 assists in the 108-91 victory at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Thunder made just 26.7% of their 3-point attempts, including a 1-of-11 clip in the first half, and trailed by as many as 31 points.
"We just wanted to protect home court," said Haliburton, who played through a calf strain and scored 14 points. "We didn't want to see these guys celebrate a championship on our home floor. Backs against the wall and we just responded. So many different guys chipped in. It was a whole team effort. I'm really proud of this group."
