Thunder Crowned NBA Champions After 103-91 Win Over Pacers in Game 7
The Oklahoma City Thunder captured the 2025 NBA Championship with a commanding 103-91 victory over the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling Game 7 at the Paycom Center. It marks the franchise’s first NBA title since relocating from Seattle, and a moment of triumph for a young, tenacious squad that has matured into champions before the basketball world’s eyes.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Delivers a Finals MVP Performance
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rose to the occasion on the NBA’s biggest stage, delivering a masterclass performance with 31 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. His poise, shot-making, and ability to control the tempo were instrumental in closing out the series.
Key Contributions:
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Clutch third-quarter run: 12 points in the third to swing momentum.
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Shot efficiency: 11-for-18 from the field, including two dagger threes.
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Leadership under pressure: Set the tone on both ends of the court.
Thunder’s Defensive Intensity Sets the Tone Early
Oklahoma City came out with relentless defensive energy, disrupting Indiana’s rhythm from the tip. The Thunder held the Pacers to just 18 points in the first quarter and forced multiple turnovers from key ball handlers like Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard.
Defensive Highlights
| Thunder Player | Defensive Impact |
|---|---|
| Luguentz Dort | Held Haliburton to 6-of-17 shooting |
| Chet Holmgren | 3 blocks, altered numerous shots |
| Jalen Williams | 3 steals, active perimeter defense |
Balanced Thunder Offense Leaves Pacers Searching for Answers
While Gilgeous-Alexander was the engine, the Thunder’s win was a team effort:
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Chet Holmgren added 18 points and 9 rebounds, showing grit in the paint.
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Jalen Williams contributed 16 points and a game-high 4 steals.
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Josh Giddey filled the stat sheet with 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists.
Indiana Pacers Struggle in Decisive Moments
Despite an impressive playoff run, the Indiana Pacers fell short under the pressure of Game 7. Tyrese Haliburton was unable to find his usual offensive flow, and while Pascal Siakam chipped in 19 points, the team lacked cohesion late in the game.
Pacers’ Shooting Woes
| Quarter | FG % |
|---|---|
| Q1 | 35% |
| Q2 | 40% |
| Q3 | 38% |
| Q4 | 33% |
They were also outscored 29-18 in the fourth quarter, a testament to OKC’s late-game dominance and Indiana’s fatigue.
Thunder’s Championship Journey: From Rebuild to Glory
In just a few seasons, the Thunder rebuilt their roster through savvy drafting and strategic trades, transforming a young core into an elite force. Head coach Mark Daigneault’s tactical approach and commitment to player development laid the foundation for this championship campaign.
Finals MVP: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Legacy Cemented
With the NBA Finals MVP trophy in hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has established himself as a top-tier superstar. His composure, playmaking vision, and leadership have elevated Oklahoma City into a perennial title contender.
“We’ve been building brick by brick,” said Gilgeous-Alexander post-game. “This city believed in us, and now we’ve delivered.”
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the Oklahoma City Thunder is all smiles after winning the 2025 NBA Finals |
What This Championship Means for OKC and the NBA
The Thunder’s victory is more than a championship — it's a statement of a new era in the NBA. A team built through youth, internal growth, and culture has dethroned veteran contenders with grit and unity.
Implications:
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OKC becomes a model franchise for rebuilding through draft capital.
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Young stars like Holmgren and Williams now have championship experience.
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Western Conference landscape shifts as OKC becomes a top-tier threat.
Final Score Recap: Game 7 Box Score
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City | 25 | 22 | 27 | 29 | 103 |
| Indiana Pacers | 18 | 23 | 32 | 18 | 91 |
Conclusion: Thunder Strikes Gold in 2025 NBA Finals
The Oklahoma City Thunder's 2025 NBA Championship will be remembered as a defining moment of resurgence, youth excellence, and strategic brilliance. They defied experience, silenced critics, and brought a title back to a city that has long waited for basketball redemption.