2025 NBA Finals: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers

The 2025 NBA Finals have arrived, featuring an unexpected yet compelling matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. Both teams have defied expectations to reach this stage, setting the stage for a thrilling series.

🏀 Series Overview

The Thunder, led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, enter the Finals with a dominant 68–14 record, boasting one of the best net ratings in NBA history. Their defense has been stifling, setting a postseason record with an +85 turnover differential. Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring prowess and ability to draw fouls have been pivotal in their success.

The Pacers, under coach Rick Carlisle, have emerged as a formidable force, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks in previous rounds. Tyrese Haliburton has been instrumental, providing leadership and playmaking. The Pacers’ offense, characterized by elite corner three-point shooting and potent bench depth, poses a significant challenge to the Thunder’s defense.

🔑 Matchup to Watch

The battle between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton is set to be one of the most exciting point guard duels in NBA Finals history. Magic Johnson has cautioned the Thunder not to underestimate the Pacers, emphasizing that the series may be more competitive than anticipated.

🗓️ Game Schedule

The Finals follow a 2-2-1-1-1 format, with games scheduled as follows:

NBA Schedule

Pacers (IND) @ Thunder (OKC) on Thursday, Jun 05, 2025 at 05:30 PM PDT. Final score: IND 111 – OKC 110
Pacers @ Thunder on Sunday, Jun 08, 2025 at 05:00 PM PDT
Thunder @ Pacers on Wednesday, Jun 11, 2025 at 05:30 PM PDT
Thunder @ Pacers on Friday, Jun 13, 2025 at 05:30 PM PDT
Pacers @ Thunder on Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 05:30 PM PDT
Thunder @ Pacers on Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 at 05:30 PM PDT
Pacers @ Thunder on Sunday, Jun 22, 2025 at 05:00 PM PDT

🏆 Prediction

While the Thunder are favored to win, the Pacers have shown resilience and strategic depth throughout the playoffs. The series is expected to be competitive, with the Thunder’s defensive prowess and the Pacers’ offensive firepower making for an intriguing clash.