Aksel Kryhlmand
The win capped a historic season and set off celebrations in front of a packed home crowd at Paycom Center
Thunder Claim First Title Since Seattle Days
Oklahoma City Thunder have clinched their first NBA championship since relocating from Seattle, defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in a decisive Game 7. The win capped a historic season and set off celebrations in front of a packed home crowd at Paycom Center.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP Crowning Moment
League MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a sensational performance, scoring 29 points and dishing out 12 assists. His Finals MVP win made him the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in 2002 to claim the scoring title, regular season MVP, and Finals MVP in a single year.
A Crushing Blow for Indiana
Indiana’s hopes took a severe hit early when star point guard Tyrese Haliburton went down with a suspected Achilles injury just minutes into the game. The two-time All-Star was visibly emotional as he was helped off the court and did not return.
Pacers Push Thunder to the Brink
Despite Haliburton’s absence, Indiana kept the game close in the first half, going into halftime with a one-point lead. Their gritty defense and unrelenting energy made them formidable opponents throughout the series.
Thunder’s Third-Quarter Takeover
Oklahoma City seized control in the third quarter. Gilgeous-Alexander, who had struggled from three-point range in the first half, ignited the crowd with a deep three-pointer. The Thunder never looked back, opening the fourth quarter on a 9-0 run.
A Historic Season for OKC
The Thunder finished the regular season with a 68-14 record, one of the best in NBA history. Their 84 total wins, including playoffs, tie them with the 1996-97 Chicago Bulls for third-most in a single season.
Rising Stars Shine Bright
Jalen Williams added 20 points and Chet Holmgren contributed 18, showcasing the Thunder’s youthful core. Their energy and poise under pressure played a crucial role in sealing the championship.
Emotional Reflections from the MVP
“It doesn’t feel real,” Gilgeous-Alexander admitted postgame. He reflected on the team’s hard work and perseverance, saying, “So many hours, so many moments, so many nights of belief and disbelief. We deserve this.”
A Finals Without the Usual Star Power
This year’s Finals featured two small-market teams without traditional superstar duos, but it delivered excitement and heart. Indiana’s underdog journey and Oklahoma City’s dominant run created one of the most compelling Finals in recent memory.
Thunder’s Lockdown Defense
OKC’s defense was relentless, especially in the second half. Their ability to stifle Indiana’s attack, particularly in the absence of Haliburton, proved pivotal in swinging momentum their way.
The Turning Point
The defining moment came early in the second half with Gilgeous-Alexander’s long three. It swung momentum, ignited the crowd, and marked the beginning of the end for the Pacers.
Historic Comparisons
With 84 wins across the season and playoffs, the Thunder now sit among elite company. Only the 2016-17 Warriors (88 wins) and 2015-16 Bulls (87 wins) have posted better combined records.
The Final Whistle
As the final buzzer sounded, Oklahoma City players rushed the court, embracing and celebrating a season for the ages. The moment marked not just a championship, but a triumph of vision, development, and belief.
Legacy in the Making
With a young core, a superstar in Gilgeous-Alexander, and a championship pedigree now established, the Thunder are well-positioned to contend for years to come. This title might just be the beginning.
A City Transformed
From the heartbreak of losing the SuperSonics to becoming champions, Oklahoma City has completed a stunning transformation. The 2025 title is a defining moment for the franchise and its devoted fanbase.