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Porter-Gaud grad Aaron Nesmith set to shine in NBA Finals opener

CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCIV) — Porter-Gaud graduate Aaron Nesmith is gearing up for Game One of the NBA Finals, playing for the Indiana Pacers against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The game will be broadcast on ABC News 4. Nesmith follows in the footsteps of Khris Middleton, another Porter-Gaud alum, who won a title with Milwaukee.

The big question surrounding Nesmith is the condition of his ankle. After an impressive 30-point performance in the Eastern Conference Finals, his playing minutes decreased.

However, Nesmith assured the media he's done every type of rehabilitation available to be 100 percent for this series. His defensive prowess will be crucial for Indiana's success against the Thunder.

**READ MORE | ["From Porter-Gaud to NBA: Aaron Nesmith rises as a star, family reflects on journey."](https://abcnews4.com/news/local/from-porter-gaud-to-nba-aaron-nesmith-rises-as-a-star-family-reflects-on-journey-wciv-abc-news-4-indiana-pacers-national-basketball-association-nba-finals-porter-gaud-high-school-basketball-eastern-conference-finals)**

Nesmith expressed his excitement, saying, "It's awesome for us—so excited about it—I worked really hard—I needed them."

Porter-Gaud's basketball legacy is strong, with Nesmith being a key part of their state title-winning teams.

The school's alumni, including Josiah-Jordan James, Jake Lanford, and Denham Wojcik, have gone on to play at prestigious universities, continuing their basketball careers.

Despite their individual paths, they remain closely connected and supportive of Nesmith as he takes the court tonight.

Both the Pacers and the Thunder are seeking their first NBA Championship in franchise history. The action begins at 8:30 p.m. on ABC News 4.

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