The Oklahoma City Thunder edged out the Indiana Pacers in a nail-biting Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals, securing a 3-2 series lead with a final score of 111-104. The game, played at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on Monday, June 16, saw the Thunder overcoming an early deficit to take a crucial step toward their first NBA title since the franchise relocated from Seattle.
The Pacers started strong, mirroring their Game 1 performance by aggressively attacking the basket and quickly racking up points. They established an early lead, putting pressure on the Thunder to respond. However, Oklahoma City demonstrated resilience, answering each Pacer surge with composed offense and tightening their defense.
The game remained a tightly contested affair, with multiple lead changes and neither team able to establish a comfortable margin. Indiana's strategy focused on capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and limiting Oklahoma City’s transition game by controlling rebounds and minimizing fouls. Meanwhile, the Thunder struggled to find consistency from beyond the arc, making only two three-pointers through three quarters.
Heading into the fourth quarter, the Thunder faced a seven-point deficit, with the Pacers seemingly poised to regain the series lead. However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the 2025 league MVP, took over in the final frame. Gilgeous-Alexander scored 15 points in the last four minutes, showcasing his exceptional scoring ability and unwavering determination. His clutch performance propelled the Thunder to outscore the Pacers 33-21 in the fourth quarter, ultimately securing the victory. He ended the game with 35 points.
Jalen Williams continued his strong Finals performance, contributing 27 points and providing a reliable scoring option alongside Gilgeous-Alexander. Chet Holmgren anchored the defense and controlled the boards, recording a team-high 15 rebounds and 14 points.
Despite the loss, Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 20 points, while Tyrese Haliburton added 18. Obi Toppin chipped in with 17 points off the bench, but the Pacers' overall offensive output faltered in the face of Oklahoma City's improved defense and Gilgeous-Alexander's dominance.
The Thunder's victory in Game 5 gives them a significant advantage as the series shifts back to Indiana for Game 6 on Thursday, June 19. Historically, teams that win Game 5 after a 2-2 tie have a high probability of winning the series. Oklahoma City, with its home-court advantage now regained, will look to close out the series and capture their first NBA title. The Pacers, however, will aim to regroup, protect their home court, and force a decisive Game 7 back in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 22.
