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Andrew Nembhard Unsung Hero of Game 1 NBA Finals Win

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Blayne Gilmer | Last updated Jun 6, 2025 9:41 AM ET

In what will forever be remembered for Tyrese Haliburton’s ice-cold game-winner, those who bleed Gonzaga red and blue know there was another guard whose fingerprints were all over Indiana’s Game One victory. Former Zags star Andrew Nembhard delivered a poised, high-impact performance on the biggest stage of his young career, helping lift the Pacers to a stunning 1-0 lead in the NBA Finals over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

With the series opener unfolding in a hostile Paycom Center, Indiana needed more than just a late-game miracle—they needed composure and consistency in the backcourt. That’s where Nembhard stepped in. During his time in Spokane, the second-year pro played with the same calm control Zags fans grew accustomed to. Nembhard tallied 14 points, six assists, and four rebounds, but his stat line doesn’t tell the whole story of his impact.

Big time minutes from @AndrewNembhard tonight pic.twitter.com/WSPhNl0FJs
— Gonzaga Basketball (@ZagMBB) June 6, 2025

Midway through the fourth quarter, with the Pacers trailing by four and the momentum slipping toward the Thunder, Nembhard buried a crucial three-pointer to cut the deficit to one. That shot quieted the crowd and set the table for Haliburton’s final heroics. Without Nembhard’s gutsy bucket, Indiana might not have had a chance to take the lead in the closing seconds.

What stood out most wasn’t just the numbers, but how Nembhard executed. He was unshaken under pressure, facilitating the offense, guarding multiple positions, and making wise decisions possession after possession. It was classic Nembhard: efficient, unselfish, and timely.

For Gonzaga faithful, seeing one of their own impact basketball’s biggest stage is a point of pride and a reminder of the program’s growing legacy in the NBA. Nembhard’s role may not command the headlines, but make no mistake—Game One doesn’t go Indiana’s way without him.

And if this performance is any indication, Andrew Nembhard might be writing a signature chapter of his own in these Finals.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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