Myles Turner and the Pacers counting on their fans for decisive Game 6

With their backs against the wall after their Game 5 defeat, the Indiana Pacers have no room for error. Down 3-2 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in these NBA Finals, they will play a decisive Game 6 at home in the Gainbridge Fieldhouse this Thursday. For Myles Turner, the Pacers’ center, this game is the perfect opportunity to lean on their fans’ unconditional support.

« This is the best time of the year. We’re coming back to Gainbridge Fieldhouse with our backs against the wall, » Turner tells our colleagues at Andscape. « This is what you dream about as a kid. I’m motivated – that’s the best way to describe my state of mind. I feel the pressure, everyone wants it. »

Gainbridge Fieldhouse atmosphere, Pacers’ secret weapon

This Game 6 will also be the last game of the season in Indiana: a Thunder victory would end the Pacers’ title hopes; and a potential Game 7 would be played in Oklahoma. In this context, Turner is counting on the electric atmosphere that Indianapolis fans, known for their passion, can create.

« We’re going to play in one of the best environments in the league, » assures the 30-year-old center. « Our fans have been waiting for this for a long time. They’re eager. The key is to show it in Game 6. They’ll be behind us, as loud as those in Oklahoma City. »

The stakes are enormous for a franchise that has never won an NBA title since its creation. Just a week ago, the Pacers were leading 2-1 in the series, thanks notably to remarkable performances from Bennedict Mathurin (27 points) and T.J. McConnell (10 points, 5 assists, 5 steals) in Game 3.

Despite the pressure, Turner remains optimistic and determined to give everything on the court. « We still have a chance. It’s not over, » he insists. « I have to give everything. We’re against the wall, we need to empty the tank. »

Meanwhile, coach Rick Carlisle keeps his team in a fighting spirit, reminding that the Pacers must approach each game « as underdogs » against the Thunder. This underdog mentality could be the key to forcing a decisive Game 7 in Oklahoma City.