Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner battled through a mysterious illness during Wednesday’s 116–107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals, sparking concern about his status for the next matchup. The veteran big man looked visibly limited, leaving fans wondering if he’d be ready for Game 4.
Fortunately for Indiana, Turner’s condition has reportedly improved, and he’s expected to suit up for Friday’s pivotal Game 4 contest at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With the Pacers holding a 2–1 series lead, his presence could be key to building a commanding advantage in the franchise’s pursuit of its first NBA championship.
Myles Turner Expected To Battle Through Illness in Game 4 Against Thunder
Turner played 30 minutes in Game 3, struggling offensively but packing a strong defensive punch. He tallied nine points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal, five blocks and one 3-pointer, shooting 3-for-11 (27.3%) from the field. His five blocks were more than what OKC’s entire team accumulated (four).
After the Pacers rallied to victory behind a 32-18 fourth-quarter scoring binge, Indiana coach Rick Carlisle informed reporters about Turner’s health concerns. The 2011 NBA championship-winning coach added that Turner’s availability for Thursday’s practice was in question, sparking speculation about his status for Friday’s Game 4.
“Myles is under the weather, and he may not even be with us tomorrow,” Carlisle said. “He just hasn’t been feeling well the last couple of days. It was affecting his wind. He won’t bring it up, but I think it’s just appropriate to mention that he is working through something, some kind of a cold or whatever, but he’s just not feeling himself.”
Carlisle: “Myles is under the weather. He may not even be with us tomorrow. He is working through something. Some kind of a cold” pic.twitter.com/rbneWKsp29
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) June 12, 2025
However, according to Underdog NBA, the mystery illness isn’t expected to hold Turner out, as he isn’t listed on Indiana’s injury report entering Friday. Reserves Jarace Walker (ankle) and Isaiah Jackson (Achilles) are the team’s only players projected to be sidelined.
Myles Turner (illness) not listed on injury report for Friday.
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) June 12, 2025
Turner is expected to remain a key presence in the paint for the Pacers in Game 4. His rim protection proved critical in Game 3, particularly in the closing minutes. With Indiana holding a 110–104 lead and just under two minutes to play, Turner delivered a momentum-shifting sequence—blocking Thunder center Chet Holmgren twice on the same possession to help seal the win.
💪 5 rejections in the Game 3 win
💪 Indy’s new all-time postseason blocks leader
💪 Pacers have a 2-1 lead in the FinalsMyles Turner… always bringing the energy on defense! pic.twitter.com/gNxCOMPDar
— NBA (@NBA) June 12, 2025
Turner’s five-block performance in Game 3 cemented his place in franchise history. The two-time NBA blocks leader now holds the Pacers’ all-time postseason record with 124 total blocks, a testament to his consistency and defensive impact.
As Indiana eyes a pivotal Game 4 and a potential 3–1 series lead, Turner’s ability to anchor the defense, despite recent illness, remains a critical piece of the Pacers’ championship push.
