Indiana Pacers top Oklahoma City Thunder to grab control of No. 1 seed ahead of Miami Heat in Eastern Conference

The Indiana Pacers and the Miami Heat have developed quite a rivalry over the past few seasons, and it doesn't seem like it will disappear any time soon. The teams have seemingly routinely met in the NBA playoffs, and this season they've gone toe-to-toe for the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference. The Pacers looked like keeping it for the majority of the season, but recently the Heat have brought themselves back in to contention, but with the Pacers' victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, things are finally back in their own control.

The Pacers fought like they did in the early stages of the season and this victory over the though Thunder team will of only added to their confidence, which was definitely needed after their recent slump. The Pacers grabbed a 102-97 win, ensuring that they need a win or a Miami loss to grab the coveted No. 1 spot. Key player Lance Stephenson said "We're going to treat it (the season finale) like a playoff game. We have to get that No. 1 spot," He continued, saying "That's what we wanted from the beginning of the season so we have to take it, not get it, we have to take it."

It would seem a certainty that the Pacers will lock up the No. 1 seed, but sooner or later, it's likely the Pacers and Heat will put the miniaturize battles aside, and do battle once and for all, to get a chance at winning the NBA championship.

Can the Pacers get the No. 1 seed, and can they top the Heat if they face one another in the playoffs?