Game 7. The two biggest words in sports. And when it’s for a chance to lift the Larry O’Brien trophy, that adds a whole new layer of excitement to it. Following Monday’s embarrassing blowout loss in OKC, the Pacers needed to bring their A game for tonight’s Game 6 to keep their season alive. There were major doubts about their ability to do so because of Tyrese Haliburton’s unfortunate calf injury. But against all odds, the Indiana team stunned everyone by annihilating the visitors and forcing Game 7, ending NBA’s nine-year drought in the process.

Yes, Sunday’s encounter marks the 20th NBA Finals Game 7 in history. The first one since the iconic 2016 Finals, when LeBron James and Co. completed their miraculous comeback from a 3-1 deficit to dethrone the 73-win Warriors team. With Pacers and OKC etching their name in history, six-time champion Scottie Pippen was left at a loss for words.

Expressing his excitement for Sunday’s game, he reacted with a basketball and heart emoji, summing up his feelings without uttering a word.

Of course, during his six title runs with the Bulls, Pippen never got a chance to suit up for an NBA Finals Game 7. That’s because he had a guy named Michael Jordan on his team, who always got the job done within six games. So, even for a legend like Pippen, Sunday’s game will be a unique experience.

And if it turns out to be anything like the one nine years ago, the game will be forever etched in history. Even to this day, LeBron’s late game block on Andre Iguodala and Kyrie Irving’s clutch go-ahead bucket on Stephen Curry are two of the most iconic Finals moments. So, Pacers and OKC have big shoes to fill. And Haliburton is ready for the challenge.

Tyrese Haliburton believes Pacers can win Game 7 in OKC despite injury woes

Before tonight’s game, veteran insider Shams Charania revealed that Hali’s calf strain was a two-week injury and had it been the regular season, he would not have suited up. Despite the glaring concerns, the star guard delivered. He dropped 14 points and five assists to lead the Pacers to victory. Following the dominant win, he revealed that they had only one goal in mind, “Yeah, we just wanted to protect home court. We didn’t wanna see these guys celebrate a championship on our home floor. Backs against the wall and we just responded.”

Now, Haliburton’s sole focus is on winning Sunday’s game. Doesn’t matter if he is injured. Doesn’t matter if the game is in enemy territory. The superstar believes his team has what it takes to win, “It’s about the margins. It’s about taking care of the ball, rebounding. Those are the most important things. You gotta control the controllables and let the cards fall where they may. It’s a one game series now and we believe. We got a lot of faith in this group. So, take care of our bodies, get ready. Game 7 NBA Finals, what more can you ask for?”

With a chance to win their maiden championship, both franchises will bring everything they have left for Sunday’s encounter, knowing that this is the last game of the season and the biggest one of their lives. Looks like it will be another epic Game 7 to remember. Do you agree?