- Named Finals MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander became only the fifth player in NBA history to earn the regular season MVP, scoring title, and Finals MVP all in one season, joining legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and LeBron James.
On June 22, 2025, the Oklahoma City Thunder made history by winning their inaugural NBA championship with a 103–91 triumph over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the Finals.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with a stellar performance, recording 29 points and 12 assists as the Thunder completed an impressive postseason journey, positioning themselves as a new force in the league.
Named Finals MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander became only the fifth player in NBA history to earn the regular season MVP, scoring title, and Finals MVP all in one season, joining legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and LeBron James.
With contributions from emerging talents Chet Holmgren (18 points, 8 rebounds, 5 blocks) and Jalen Williams (20 points), the Thunder's young talent rose to the occasion, particularly in the second half after the Pacers had leveled the game at 56.
A key turning point occurred in the third quarter when Oklahoma City unleashed a fierce offensive surge.
Gilgeous-Alexander nailed a three-pointer, followed by assists on back-to-back triples from Holmgren and Williams, swiftly breaking the deadlock and changing the game’s momentum.
The Pacers faced a significant setback early on when All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton re-injured his left leg, limiting his participation and leaving Indiana searching for solutions.
Even with strong performances from Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard, the Pacers found it challenging to maintain consistent offense without their primary playmaker. Oklahoma City’s defense intensified in the final moments, keeping Indiana scoreless for critical periods in the fourth quarter.
This championship marks not only the Thunder’s first but also the first professional sports title ever for Oklahoma. With one of the NBA's youngest rosters and a wealth of future draft picks, it's clear that Oklahoma City's success may just be starting.
For the Pacers, the defeat is disappointing following a promising playoff run, but the team’s development and Haliburton’s leadership indicate a bright future ahead. As the Thunder celebrated in front of a jubilant home crowd, it was evident that a new era in the NBA has begun.
