The Indiana Pacers took a commanding 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals on Wednesday evening, led by NBA superstar Tyrese Haliburton.
The Pacers, who are looking to win the first championship in their history, were supported by legend Reggie Miller as they stormed to a 116-107 victory.
However, fans were stunned by Bennedict Mathurin’s performance on Wednesday. He scored 27 points in just 22 minutes at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indiana.
The Pacers’ player showed off an array of shot-making abilities, including cutting and driving to the basket, and as a three-point spot-up shooter.
Fans claim Bennedict Mathurin should win NBA Finals MVP
As the final buzzer sounded, fans took to social media to express their awe at Mathurin’s performance.
One X user said: “X factor Benn,” while another added: “Yes’cerrrr Ben for MVP.”
Other fans praised Mathurin’s performance, adding: “Great game @bennedict !! Way to show up in the biggest moment! We all believe in you and know you are capable of balling out like this time and time again! 2 More Wins!!”
Another fan praised the Pacers’ camaraderie, saying: “This team is something else. The chemistry and brotherhood it’s incredible!”
Mathurin, who shot seven from eight from the free-throw line, led the entire Pacers team in scoring across the 48 minutes of play.
Mathurin says he ‘learned a lot’ after NBA comeback
Indiana made the conference finals last season but were without Mathurin as they fell short against the Boston Celtics.
The 22-year-old Canadian was forced to miss last year’s post-season due to a torn labrum.
After his stunning Game Three performance, Mathurin reflected on his time out of the game.
He said, “I think as much as I was out last year, not being able to play, I learned a lot.
“Just sitting on the bench, being next to the coaches who were able to run me through the game and stuff like that.
“It was an unfortunate situation but I was fortunate enough to learn a lot and be ready for this year.”
Mathurin will be hoping to put in a similar performance when the Pacers face the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Four of the NBA Finals. The game tips off at 1:30 GMT for UK viewers.