Starting an NBA comeback depends on defense. To turn a game around and secure a win, a team must prevent the opponent from scoring while finding ways to score themselves. The ongoing 2025 NBA playoffs are showcasing a familiar truth: leads in basketball are never guaranteed. A remarkable example of this occurred during a first-round series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite being down 29 points in the second quarter and trailing 77-51 at halftime in Game 3, the Thunder staged an incredible comeback, outscoring the Grizzlies by 32 points in the second half to secure a 114-108 victory. This victory marked the first time a team had overcome a 26-point halftime deficit in a playoff game.
In another impressive display of resilience, the New York Knicks erased 20-point deficits in consecutive games against the Boston Celtics in the second round, clinching both games in dramatic fashion. The Denver Nuggets also demonstrated their comeback prowess by overcoming an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter against the Thunder to win 121-119.
The Indiana Pacers joined the comeback trend by rallying from behind to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-119 with a clutch 3-pointer from Tyrese Haliburton. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle attributed their success to the team’s unwavering belief in each other and their commitment to executing their game plan for the full duration of each match.
The 2025 NBA playoffs have become a showcase of thrilling comebacks, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with unpredictable and entertaining series. Coaches and players alike emphasize the importance of staying focused and resilient, especially in high-pressure playoff scenarios. The Knicks’ historic back-to-back 20-point comeback victories and Indiana’s remarkable late-game heroics highlight the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball. Players like Karl-Anthony Towns of the Knicks emphasize the importance of staying present in the moment and executing at the highest level to achieve success in the face of adversity.
The resilience and determination displayed by teams in overcoming significant deficits underscore the thrilling and unpredictable nature of playoff basketball, making the 2025 NBA playoffs a season to remember.
Carlisle emphasized the importance of staying present, stacking possessions, and trusting the process, highlighting the power of perseverance. While he referred to luck and fortune, he acknowledged that overcoming a 20-point deficit is mentally and physically challenging, requiring immense energy and focus. Winning is achieved one possession at a time, with teams advised to break the game into smaller segments and maintain aggression to put pressure on opponents.
A remarkable example of a comeback occurred in Game 2 between Indiana and Cleveland, where the Pacers outscored the Cavaliers significantly. The Celtics, on the other hand, struggled in the fourth quarter against New York, illustrating the impact of shooting and performance on the outcome of a game. The Knicks have excelled in comebacks by tightening their defense, dominating in the fourth quarter, and focusing on making crucial stops to fuel their offensive runs.
The Knicks’ successful formula involves strong defense leading to offensive opportunities, with players like Josh Hart stressing the importance of defensive intensity in sparking their rallies. However, the challenge for teams making comebacks lies in learning from their mistakes and striving for consistency throughout the game.
This analysis of NBA playoff comebacks showcases the resilience and strategic adjustments that teams employ to turn the tide in their favor.
