Skip Bayless’ Drops Bombshell After OKC Thunder Game 2 Domination – Can the Indiana Pacers Respond?

The Pacers recent lost in Game 2 squeezed out a fiery reaction from popular NBA analyst Skip Bayless. The NBA Finals took a dramatic turn in Game 2 as the Oklahoma City Thunder overpowered the Indiana Pacers, 123-107, leveling the series at 1-1.

With the action shifting to Indianapolis for Game 3, the Pacers face a crucial moment—can they reclaim momentum, or will the Thunder continue their dominance? Sports analyst Skip Bayless has already made up his mind, boldly predicting Oklahoma City will win the championship in just five games.

After a disappointing performance in Game 2, Indiana’s flaws were exposed—struggling offense, defensive lapses, and a quiet night from star Tyrese Haliburton. But history has shown that underdog stories can unfold in the NBA Finals. Can the Pacers, led by championship-winning coach Rick Carlisle, defy expectations and turn the tide? Or will the Thunder prove Bayless right and take full control of the series on Wednesday night?

Skip Bayless believes the thunder will win the series in five games

Skip Bayless didn’t hold back in his assessment of the Pacers’ chances.

He declared the Thunder will close out the Finals in five games, calling Oklahoma City the far superior team. He also pointed out that the Thunder secured their Game 2 victory without even playing at their best.

“The Oklahoma City Thunder are going to win the NBA Finals in 5 games because they're way better than the Indiana Pacers… Wednesday night will be the night the Thunder take complete control of the series,” Bayless said.

The Indiana Pacers struggled in game 2

Indiana Pacers’ performance in Game 2 left much to be desired. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton was held to just five points entering the fourth quarter, stifled by Oklahoma City’s relentless defense. If the Pacers hope to turn the series around, Haliburton and the offense will need to find answers quickly.

History offers a glimmer of hope for the Indiana Pacers

Despite Skip Bayless’ skepticism, the Pacers aren’t without hope. Upsets have happened before—most notably in 2011, when Rick Carlisle coached the Dallas Mavericks to a Finals win over the heavily favored Miami Heat.

Now, Carlisle leads the Pacers, and his experience could prove crucial as Indiana looks to defy expectations.

Pacers vs Thunder Game 3 could shift the series

The series moves to Indiana for Game 3, tipping off Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. EST. A Pacers win would give them a 2-1 lead and put pressure on the Thunder. But if Oklahoma City delivers another strong performance, Bayless’ prediction may start looking inevitable.Also read: "That's my favorite player of all time" - OKC Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander credits Los Angeles Lakers legend as major influence ahead of NBA Finals Game 2 against the Indiana PacersFor now, the Finals remain up for grabs—but the Thunder have made it clear they’re the team to beat.