The Indiana Pacers continue to deliver moments destined for NBA history. In Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Pacers completed a stunning comeback against the Oklahoma City Thunder, sealing a dramatic 111–110 win at the buzzer. Among those captivated by the moment was Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade, who made a headline-grabbing comparison between Tyrese Haliburton and Philadelphia 76ers icon Allen Iverson.
Among the many fans and celebrities reacting to the thriller was Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade. He posted his live reaction to Haliburton’s game-winning shot on social media, yelling, “Superstar! Superstar! Superstar!” in celebration of the buzzer-beater.
Hours later, Wade took to social media again to explain why Haliburton now belongs in the NBA’s superstar conversation. “Haliburton is a f***ing superstar,” Wade said. “I just witnessed one of the greatest games I’ve ever seen as a fan. First of all, this is one of the greatest Finals games—OKC vs. Pacers. There’s no doubt anymore. He’s a superstar.”
Wade praised Haliburton’s ability to deliver under pressure, especially given the off-night he was having. “You don’t understand—when you’re out of rhythm, not getting your looks, no free throws, nothing flowing… to take and make that shot? He’s cold,” Wade added. “Allen Iverson would probably call him and say, ‘You’re a cold mo****f***er.’ I’m buying a jersey. I want it signed. This guy has it. His clutch gene is what we all wish we had.”
Haliburton had a tough start to the night, as the Pacers turned the ball over nine times in the first half—one of the worst first-half stat lines in NBA Finals history. That came just days after Haliburton made history with 30 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in a turnover-free playoff game. He still finished Game 1 with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists.
see also
Indiana Pacers take Game 1 of NBA Finals, achieving historic milestone not seen since 2011
Indiana’s win came not just from Haliburton’s brilliance, but from a balanced team effort. Rick Carlisle’s team saw five players score at least 14 points, a crucial factor in overcoming the early deficit. The Pacers became the first team since Carlisle’s 2011 Mavericks to erase a 15-point hole and win in the NBA Finals, as noted by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
Despite Charles Barkley backing the Thunder’s bench, it was Indiana’s reserves who delivered when it mattered most. The Pacers’ second unit constantly swung momentum throughout the game. Obi Toppin stood out with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in just 25 minutes, becoming Indiana’s second-highest scorer of the night.
Indiana’s performance underscored why they’ve emerged as legitimate title contenders. The Pacers don’t rely on one superstar to carry them—they thrive off collective effort and high-level execution. Game 1 proved just how dangerous they can be when their depth and leadership align in the clutch.
