The Indiana Pacers are on the brink of their first NBA championship, winning Game 3 of the Finals 116-107 against the Oklahoma City Thunder and leading the series 2-1. Their success is largely attributed to an effective up-tempo motion offense that keeps the ball moving and exploits defensive weaknesses. Coach Rick Carlisle has been pivotal in this transformation, but he also drew on insights from former Pacer Buddy Hield to instill this approach in current players like Tyrese Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith.

Hield, who played for the Pacers for two seasons before being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, became instrumental in shaping the offensive strategies and encouraging his teammates to embrace a more fluid style of play. His influence is evident as Haliburton and Nesmith have thrived in this playoff run. With strong performances and teamwork, the Pacers are now just two wins away from an elusive title.