The Oklahoma City Thunder celebrate | NBA Final

#nba #nbafinals #oklahomacitythunder #basketball Oklahoma City Thunder Crowned 2025 NBA Champions After Thrilling Game 7 Victory OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – June 22, 2025 – The Oklahoma City Thunder have claimed their first NBA Championship, defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in a decisive Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center. The victory marks a historic moment for the franchise, bringing the coveted Larry O'Brien trophy to Oklahoma City for the first time since the team's relocation. The highly anticipated Game 7 lived up to its billing, offering a tense and emotional battle that captivated fans across the nation. While the Pacers, despite being underdogs, showed incredible resilience throughout the series, the Thunder's dominant second-half performance ultimately sealed their fate as champions. The first half was a tight affair, with both teams trading blows. The Pacers even held a narrow 48-47 lead at halftime, a testament to their fighting spirit, especially after a heartbreaking injury to their star point guard Tyrese Haliburton early in the first quarter. Haliburton, who suffered an Achilles tendon injury, was sidelined for the remainder of the game, a significant blow to Indiana's championship aspirations. However, the Thunder, led by their phenomenal MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, roared to life in the third quarter. Gilgeous-Alexander, who was consistent throughout the game, orchestrated a 34-20 run in the third period, turning the Pacers' slim lead into a commanding 81-68 advantage for Oklahoma City heading into the final quarter. His masterful play, combining scoring with crucial assists, solidified his case for the Finals MVP award. The fourth quarter saw the Thunder continue their surge, extending their lead further. While the Pacers, fueled by contributions from Bennedict Mathurin (24 points, 13 rebounds), Pascal Siakam (16 points), and T.J. McConnell (16 points), valiantly attempted a comeback, they could not overcome the double-digit deficit or the absence of Haliburton's playmaking. The Thunder's defense was stifling, forcing 21 turnovers from the Pacers and converting them into crucial points. As the final seconds ticked away, the Paycom Center erupted in a deafening roar. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished with an impressive 29 points, 12 assists, and 5 rebounds, was deservingly awarded the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player trophy. Jalen Williams added 20 points, and Chet Holmgren contributed 18 points and a Finals Game 7 record of five blocked shots, showcasing the young talent that has defined this Thunder squad. The win culminates a remarkable season for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who finished with a league-best 68 regular-season wins and displayed exceptional teamwork and determination throughout the playoffs. Head Coach Mark Daigneault praised his team's "uncommon" unity and competitive spirit, stating, "They behave like champions. They compete like champions. They root for each other's success, which is rare in professional sports. They are an uncommon team and now they're champions." While the Indiana Pacers' valiant run falls short of a title, their resilience and impressive playoff journey have earned them immense respect. The focus for them now shifts to Haliburton's recovery and building on a promising season. For Oklahoma City, the celebration is just beginning. The Thunder have taken the NBA by storm, securing their place in history and igniting hopes for a potential dynasty in the years to come.