The Oklahoma City Thunder's quest for their first NBA title since relocating from Seattle hit a snag as the Indiana Pacers fought off elimination with a commanding 108-91 victory in Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals. A raucous home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse witnessed a determined Pacers squad stave off defeat, forcing a decisive Game 7 back in Oklahoma City.
Throughout the series, the Thunder, led by MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, appeared poised to capture the championship. After securing a Game 5 victory at home, they traveled to Indianapolis with a 3-2 series lead, needing just one more win to clinch the title. Many Thunder fans were already making parade plans, confident that their young and talented team would seal the deal on the road.
However, the Pacers had other plans. Guard Tyrese Haliburton, despite a lingering calf strain, was cleared to play, providing a significant boost to Indiana's morale and offensive firepower. Haliburton's presence ignited the Pacers, who came out with an intensity and focus that the Thunder struggled to match.
Indiana dominated the first half, establishing a 64-42 lead, showcasing stifling defense and efficient offense. Haliburton contributed 12 points in the first half, while Pascal Siakam continued his strong Finals performance with 16 points and 13 rebounds. The Pacers' balanced scoring attack and relentless energy overwhelmed the Thunder, who struggled to find their rhythm.
The Thunder's star duo, Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, who had been instrumental in their previous victories, found it difficult to score efficiently against the Pacers' swarming defense. Oklahoma City's offense sputtered, and they were unable to contain Indiana's balanced attack.
As the second half commenced, the Pacers maintained their momentum, extending their lead and thwarting any comeback attempts by the Thunder. Indiana's defense remained resolute, forcing turnovers and contesting every shot. The Pacers' role players stepped up, providing valuable contributions on both ends of the court.
Despite a brief glimmer of hope in the third quarter when they cut the deficit to 19, the Thunder could not sustain the effort needed to overcome the Pacers' commanding lead. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, who had been struggling with a right calf injury, displayed resilience, attacking aggressively. The Pacers' dominant performance allowed them to rest Haliburton in the closing stages, ensuring he would be ready for the pivotal Game 7.
The unexpected turn of events in Game 6 has shifted the series' momentum. What was once viewed as an inevitable Thunder championship celebration has now transformed into a high-stakes Game 7 showdown. The Thunder will need to regroup, rediscover their offensive rhythm, and match the Pacers' intensity if they hope to secure the title on their home court.
The Pacers, buoyed by their Game 6 triumph, head to Oklahoma City with renewed confidence. They have demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. If they can replicate their Game 6 performance, they have a chance to pull off an improbable upset and capture their first NBA championship.
The stage is now set for a thrilling Game 7, where the Thunder and Pacers will leave it all on the court for the ultimate prize.
