The 2025 NBA offseason has been nothing short of electrifying, with the echoes of an unforgettable Finals still reverberating across the league. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s triumph over the Indiana Pacers in a heart-stopping seven-game series delivered drama, heartbreak, and a new chapter in NBA lore. Yet, as confetti fell and celebrations erupted, the storylines emerging from this epic showdown and the subsequent player moves have only deepened the intrigue for fans and analysts alike.
At the center of the Finals’ emotional whirlwind stood Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s dynamic guard who not only led his team to victory but carved out a place in the NBA history books. Gilgeous-Alexander, frequently referred to as SGA, capped off a season for the ages by sweeping the league’s most coveted individual awards: the scoring title, league MVP, and Finals MVP. Averaging an electrifying 32.7 points per game, SGA became the first player since Michael Jordan to claim all three honors in a single season. That’s no small feat, and it’s a testament to his relentless drive and cool composure under pressure.
But the Finals weren’t just about glory—they were tinged with pain and sportsmanship. Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who had been Indiana’s engine all season and a postseason folk hero, suffered a devastating torn ACL during the series. The injury not only dashed his hopes for a championship but also ruled him out for the entire 2025-2026 NBA season. The moment was captured poignantly in the Netflix docuseries Starting Five, which provided fans with unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the Finals’ emotional highs and lows.
In one of the series’ most talked-about scenes, a jubilant SGA made his way to the Pacers’ locker room after Game 7 to check on Haliburton. The exchange, caught on camera, was a masterclass in sportsmanship. “Tyrese, I’m so sorry,” SGA said, his voice tinged with empathy. Haliburton, ever the competitor, replied, “No, it’s all right, Congratulations, bro.” According to ClutchPoints, this genuine display of mutual respect resonated with fans and players alike, highlighting the camaraderie that often exists beneath the surface of fierce competition.
The Starting Five docuseries, now in its second season, has quickly joined the ranks of legendary sports documentaries. Produced by a powerhouse trio—LeBron James’ Uninterrupted, Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions, and Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground Productions—the series peels back the curtain on NBA life. This season, viewers are treated to behind-the-scenes stories not only from SGA and Haliburton but also from stars like Jaylen Brown, Kevin Durant, and James Harden. The show’s ability to capture both triumph and tragedy has made it a must-watch for basketball enthusiasts.
While Oklahoma City’s championship parade was still fresh in the minds of fans, the league’s attention turned westward, where a new partnership was brewing in the Bay Area. The Golden State Warriors, perennial contenders and owners of four titles in the last eight seasons, announced the signing of veteran big man Al Horford on October 1, 2025. Horford, who had previously squared off against the Warriors in the 2022 NBA Finals as a member of the Boston Celtics, now joins forces with his former rivals in a move that has the basketball world buzzing.
Draymond Green, the Warriors’ outspoken leader, couldn’t hide his excitement about teaming up with Horford. In an exclusive interview with NBC Sports Bay Area’s Kerith Burke, Green made it clear he wouldn’t be dredging up the past—specifically, Golden State’s 2022 Finals victory over Horford’s Celtics. “Absolutely not,” Green said when asked if he’d remind Horford of the outcome. “No chance. Not necessary. Al’s a champion. It’s unfortunate for him, you know, [that] he had to play the Dubs. But there won’t be no reminders from me.”
Green’s respect for Horford stems not just from his on-court abilities, but also from a shared understanding of the highs and lows of championship basketball. “I am excited to learn from him, excited to have him as a teammate—lucky to have him as a teammate. I’ve lost some championships, too, so I wouldn’t want someone coming in reminding me of my losses. I won’t be the one to remind him of his.” It’s a sentiment that speaks volumes about Green’s growth as a teammate and his appreciation for the nuances of NBA brotherhood.
The 2022 Finals, which the Warriors clinched in six games on Boston’s home court, saw Green contribute across the board with averages of 6.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. Horford, for his part, was a force for the Celtics, posting 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per contest. But it was Steph Curry who stole the show, earning Finals MVP honors with a blistering 31.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. The series was a showcase of grit, skill, and the relentless pursuit of greatness that defines NBA champions.
Now, as the Warriors gear up for another campaign with Horford in their ranks, expectations are sky-high. The addition of the veteran big man brings experience, versatility, and leadership to a squad already loaded with championship pedigree. Fans are eager to see how Horford’s presence will mesh with the likes of Curry, Green, and the rest of the Warriors’ core. Will this new combination be the spark Golden State needs to reclaim the throne?
Meanwhile, the Thunder’s victory has set a new standard for excellence, and SGA’s historic season has inspired a new generation of players and fans. But the bittersweet nature of Haliburton’s injury lingers, a reminder of the fragility of athletic dreams. As he faces a long road to recovery, the Pacers and their supporters will be rallying behind their star, hoping for a triumphant return in the future.
With blockbuster moves, compelling personalities, and the ever-present drama of the NBA, the stage is set for a 2025-2026 season full of possibilities. As teams retool and rivalries simmer, one thing is certain—the storylines born from this past Finals and the ensuing offseason will shape the league for years to come. For now, fans can only watch, wait, and wonder what jaw-dropping moments the next chapter will bring.
