The Oklahoma City Thunder have finally reached the pinnacle of NBA glory, capturing their first championship since relocating from Seattle in 2008. In a thrilling and hard-fought Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals on Sunday, June 22, the Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 103-91 to claim the title. The victory not only marks the franchise's second overall championship, the first having been won as the Seattle SuperSonics in 1979, but it also caps off a historic season for Oklahoma City.
Leading the charge was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was named Finals MVP after an outstanding performance throughout the series and especially in Game 7. The 26-year-old MVP of the regular season scored 29 points, dished out 12 assists, and grabbed five rebounds in the decisive game, showcasing his all-around brilliance. Gilgeous-Alexander's 29 points in Game 7 rank tied for the 12th-most ever scored in a Finals Game 7 and the sixth-most by a winner, while his 12 assists tied for fifth-most in such a high-pressure contest. He joined an elite group of players who have scored at least 25 points and handed out 10 assists in a Game 7, including legends like Jerry West, Walt Frazier, James Worthy, and LeBron James.
Yet, Gilgeous-Alexander was quick to share the spotlight with teammate Jalen Williams, a rising star who has been instrumental throughout the playoffs. “Jalen Williams is a once-in-a-lifetime player,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Without him, without his performances, without his big-time moments, without his big-time shot making, defending, everything he brings to this team, we don't win this championship. This is just as much my MVP as it is his and we'll share this one for a very long time.” Williams contributed 20 points, four rebounds, and four assists in Game 7 and averaged 23.6 points per game in the Finals. His 40-point explosion in Game 5 remains a highlight of the series, and together, Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams combined for 377 points in the Finals, the second-highest total for a duo in NBA Finals history behind only LeBron James and Kyrie Irving’s 398 in 2016.
Chet Holmgren, the slender but impactful 7-foot-1 center, also made his mark in Game 7 with 18 points on 6-of-8 shooting, eight rebounds, and five blocks, proving his worth despite previous injury setbacks. Holmgren’s perseverance through a fractured hip and other challenges was rewarded with his first NBA championship ring. “Broken bones, bruises – it’s all temporary. But this (championship) is forever!” he said after the game.
The Thunder's path to the title was marked by a franchise-record 68 regular-season wins and a combined 84 victories including the playoffs, tying the 1996-97 Chicago Bulls for the third-most wins in any NBA season. Their dominance was evident in their playoff performance, finishing with a 16-7 record and winning two Game 7s en route to the crown. Oklahoma City’s home court advantage proved potent, boasting a 10-2 record at home during the playoffs and a staggering +20.7 net rating at the Paycom Center.
Game 7 itself was a tense and emotional affair, especially for the Indiana Pacers, whose star Tyrese Haliburton suffered a devastating Achilles tendon injury early in the first quarter. Haliburton, who had been playing through a strained calf earlier in the series, was forced to leave the game after just seven minutes, visibly distraught as he was carried off the court and later seen on crutches. His absence profoundly affected the Pacers’ chances.
Despite the setback, the resilient Pacers led 48-47 at halftime, buoyed by standout performances from Bennedict Mathurin, who scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, Pascal Siakam with 16 points, and T.J. McConnell’s timely contributions. Indiana’s grit was on full display throughout the playoffs, overcoming a 10-15 start to finish 50-32 and making an improbable run to the Finals.
However, the Thunder’s defense proved too disruptive in the second half. Oklahoma City outscored Indiana 56-43 after halftime, with a dominant third quarter where they outpaced the Pacers 34-20. The Thunder capitalized on 23 Pacers turnovers, converting them into 32 points, including 18 points off eight turnovers in the third quarter alone. Indiana’s shooting dipped to 41.4% for the game, their lowest scoring output of the playoffs, as the Thunder’s defense suffocated their offense.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed frustration before the game about Oklahoma City’s early preparations for a championship parade, noting buses already painted with “CHAMPIONS” in the city. The emotional weight of the game was palpable, with players and fans alike aware of the stakes and the heartbreak of Haliburton’s injury.
The Thunder’s triumph also continued a remarkable run of parity in the NBA, becoming the seventh different champion in the last seven seasons. They are the ninth franchise to win a title during Adam Silver’s 12 seasons as commissioner, a stark contrast to the eight franchises that won during David Stern’s 30-year tenure.
Beyond the court, the Thunder’s connection with their city is notable. Oklahoma City fans have shown unwavering support, passing a 2023 public funding measure for a new arena with 71% approval, and the team’s management maintains close relationships with city officials, ensuring the franchise’s long-term stability through 2053 and beyond.
Looking ahead, the Thunder’s future appears bright. Their roster boasts an average age under 26, and they hold a stockpile of 11 first-round draft picks to bolster their lineup. The dynamic duo of Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams, both still in their mid-20s, could be the foundation for a new dynasty in the NBA.
For the Pacers, the journey ends with a bittersweet note. Their valiant effort throughout the playoffs and in Game 7, especially in the face of Haliburton’s injury, has earned them respect and admiration. However, the potential long-term absence of their star player due to the Achilles injury poses significant challenges for the franchise moving forward.
As the NBA shifts its focus to the upcoming draft, the Thunder’s victory stands as a testament to resilience, teamwork, and the power of youth. Oklahoma City’s first NBA championship since 1979 is a milestone that will be celebrated for years to come, while the Pacers’ courageous run will be remembered as one of the most inspiring underdog stories in recent basketball history.
