Jalen Williams delivered a career-defining performance on Monday night, dropping 40 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a crucial 120-109 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, MySportDab Reports
The Thunder, now up 3-2 in the best-of-seven series, are just one victory away from clinching their first NBA title since the franchise’s relocation to Oklahoma City.
They’ll have their first chance to seal the deal on Thursday when the series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 6.
Despite an explosive start that saw the Thunder build an 18-point first-half lead, Indiana rallied back to close the gap to just two points in the fourth quarter.
However, Oklahoma City responded with poise and precision, led by Williams and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who poured in 31 points, 10 assists, four blocks, and two steals in a complete all-around performance.
Williams added six rebounds and four assists to his 40-point masterpiece, emerging as the driving force down the stretch to stave off the Pacers’ late push.
Indiana was led by Pascal Siakam, who scored 28 points in a valiant effort. But their hopes were hampered by the struggles of Tyrese Haliburton, who continues to battle a nagging right calf injury.
The All-Star point guard exited in the first quarter and returned later, but was visibly limited and finished with just four points—all from the free throw line.
The Thunder’s defensive intensity proved too much for the Pacers, who now face elimination on their home court in Game 6.
