Oklahoma City erupted in jubilation as the Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, securing their first NBA championship since the franchise relocated from Seattle in 2008. The Paycom Center was electric as the Thunder, fueled by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's stellar performance, overcame a resilient Pacers team to clinch the title.
The series, which was the first NBA Finals to reach a Game 7 since 2016, was a hard-fought battle between two teams hungry for a championship. The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton, had defied expectations throughout the playoffs, showcasing their resilience and ability to come back from deficits. However, their hopes were dealt a major blow when Haliburton suffered a lower-leg injury in the first quarter of Game 7.
Despite the setback, the Pacers fought valiantly, keeping the game close in the first half. Haliburton managed to score nine points in the first seven minutes. However, tragedy struck when he collapsed to the floor after trying to dribble past Gilgeous-Alexander. The injury was later confirmed to be to Haliburton's Achilles tendon. Indiana managed to secure a narrow lead of 48-47 at halftime, demonstrating their determination.
The Thunder, however, came out strong in the second half, led by Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished the game with 29 points, 12 assists, and five rebounds. Oklahoma City's defense tightened, and their offense found its rhythm, allowing them to pull away and build a comfortable lead.
Even with a considerable 22-point deficit, the Pacers showed their characteristic grit in the fourth quarter, mounting a comeback attempt. But without Haliburton's offensive firepower and playmaking ability, their efforts fell short against a determined Thunder team.
The final moments of the game were filled with emotion as the realization of what they had accomplished began to sink in for the Thunder players and fans. As the clock ticked down to zero, the arena erupted in a deafening roar, celebrating the franchise's first NBA championship in Oklahoma City.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's performance in Game 7 was a fitting end to his MVP-caliber season. He was the team's only consistent source of offense in the first half, carrying the Thunder until his teammates found their footing. His leadership and scoring ability were instrumental in guiding the team to victory. "It doesn't feel real," Gilgeous-Alexander said after the game. "So many hours. So many moments. So many emotions. So many nights of disbelief. So many nights of belief...It's crazy to know that we're all here. This group worked for it. This group put in the hours. And we deserve this."
The championship win marks the culmination of a long journey for the Thunder franchise, who were the best team with 68 wins this season. After years of rebuilding and developing young talent, they have finally reached the pinnacle of success. This victory not only brings joy to the city of Oklahoma City but also signals a promising future for the team, as they look to build a dynasty and compete for championships for years to come.
