When theIndiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunderwent into double overtime in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the basketball world collectively held its breath. As the minutes ticked on past regulation, fans on both sides found themselves wondering not just who would win-but how overtime in the NBA actually works.
Unlike the NFL, where playoff overtime rules change from the regular season and can be hard to follow, the NBA keeps things relatively straightforward. But that doesn’t mean it’s simple. Overtime in pro basketball comes with its own strategy, quirks, and crucial rules that can completely change the outcome of a game.
NBA overtime lasts five minutes. Teams don’t switch baskets, and it starts with a jump ball at center court. Each team gets just two timeouts, and the shot clock rules stay the same as in regulation. If the score is still tied after five minutes, they just keep going-no sudden death.
Foul Trouble and Timeouts: The Real OT Game Changers
One of the biggest keys to navigating OT? Managing fouls. In each overtime period, team fouls reset-but individual player fouls do not. That’s why Jalen Williams fouling out in Game 2 hurt Oklahoma City down the stretch. Teams only get three fouls per OT before giving up free throws, so pacing is everything.
Coaches also have limited tools at their disposal. The NBA allows just one Coach’s Challenge per game, and while it can be used in overtime, there are restrictions. For example, in the final two minutes of any OT period, goaltending and basket interference can’t be challenged by coaches-they’re only reviewable by the officials (per the NBA Rulebook).
That nuance came into play when Myles Turner made a critical block that fans thought might’ve been interference-but no challenge could be made.
Both teams have proven they can handle the pressure. According to Basketball Reference, the Thunder were 5-2 in OT games this postseason before Wednesday, while the Pacers held a 3-1 record. That kind of experience matters-especially when every possession counts and legs are fading.
The NBA Finals are often decided by moments. In overtime, those moments are governed by a set of rules that don’t always make headlines-but often shape them.
Game 3 is on the horizon, and if the series continues at this pace, don’t be surprised if we’re in for more bonus basketball. Now at least, you’ll know exactly what’s going on when that extra period starts ticking.
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