Rick Carlisle’s Coaching Brilliance Shines in Game 3 as Pacers Secure 116-107 Victory in NBA Finals

Rick Carlisle reminded the basketball world why he is considered one of the elite tacticians in the NBA. With the Indiana Pacers facing a critical Game 3 in the NBA Finals, Carlisle’s masterful coaching and calm leadership helped steer the team to a 116-107 victory, cutting into their opponent’s series lead and reigniting hope among Pacers fans.

In a game marked by tactical nuance, disciplined execution, and inspired performances from multiple players, Carlisle’s fingerprints were all over the win. From rotations to play-calling, the 64-year-old head coach put on a clinic that showcased why he’s still at the top of his game more than two decades into his head coaching career.

Tactical Mastery from the Opening Tip

From the outset, Carlisle deployed a revamped game plan aimed at exploiting the opponent’s weak-side defense and neutralizing their dominant frontcourt presence. Rather than leaning heavily on Tyrese Haliburton’s playmaking alone, the Pacers ran a variety of sets that distributed ball-handling responsibilities, keeping the defense constantly guessing.

Carlisle emphasized quick ball movement and spacing, allowing Indiana to spread the floor and create high-quality looks. The result was a balanced offensive attack with six players scoring in double figures — a hallmark of Carlisle’s egalitarian offensive philosophy.

“We wanted to make them work on every possession,” said Carlisle during his postgame press conference. “It’s not about one guy going off. It’s about everyone touching the ball and making the right play. That’s who we are.”

Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam Lead the Way

While it was a collective effort, Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam played key roles in executing Carlisle’s plan to perfection.

Haliburton, who has matured into one of the league’s most intelligent floor generals, finished with 22 points and 11 assists. He masterfully navigated the defense, using pick-and-rolls and off-ball actions to create mismatches and open lanes.

Meanwhile, Siakam brought the physicality and veteran savvy that has made him such a valuable midseason acquisition. He added 20 points and 8 rebounds, anchoring the frontcourt and providing critical defense in the paint.

“Coach put us in the right spots to be effective,” Siakam said postgame. “Everything was about trust and communication, and that starts with Rick. He sees the game differently.”

Defensive Adjustments Pay Dividends

Defensively, Carlisle made bold adjustments, switching from traditional man coverage to a mix of zone and hybrid schemes that clogged the driving lanes and forced tough perimeter shots. The shift disrupted the opposing team’s offensive rhythm, particularly limiting their ability to capitalize on transition opportunities.

Myles Turner was a defensive anchor, tallying four blocks and altering several other shots. His presence, combined with a committed team effort to crash the boards and close out shooters, gave Indiana the edge in crucial stretches of the game.

“We knew we had to change things up,” Carlisle said. “We gave up too many easy buckets in Games 1 and 2. Tonight, we wanted to make them earn everything. Myles was phenomenal, but it was a total team commitment on defense.”

Bench Contributions and Energy

Another testament to Carlisle’s influence was the performance of the Pacers’ bench. Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin combined for 25 points, bringing energy and poise that extended leads and maintained momentum whenever the starters rested.

The rotations were crisp and timely, a reflection of Carlisle’s feel for the game and his ability to maximize the talent at his disposal. The second unit’s production helped Indiana maintain balance and kept pressure on the opponent throughout all four quarters.

A Momentum Shift in the Series?

With the win, Indiana trails 2-1 in the series but now carries renewed confidence into Game 4, which will also take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Pacers fed off a raucous home crowd, and Carlisle acknowledged the role fans played in lifting the team.

“Our fans were amazing tonight,” he said. “You could feel the energy in every possession. That’s the kind of environment that gives you a real home-court advantage.”

Carlisle’s experience, tactical IQ, and ability to make real-time adjustments gave Indiana the edge in Game 3. As the series progresses, the chess match between coaches will only intensify, but the Pacers now know they have a coach who can guide them through the fire.

With the series far from over, one thing is clear: Rick Carlisle has returned to the NBA Finals spotlight not just as a survivor, but as a strategist with few peers.