The 2025 NBA Finals tipped off on June 5 as the Oklahoma City Thunder hosted the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of a series that promises to captivate basketball fans across the country. The game began at 8:30 PM ET at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, where two of the league’s most surprising teams met in an unlikely championship showdown.
This year’s Finals break from the usual narrative of powerhouse franchises and instead spotlight two rising squads fueled by young talent, grit, and strategic leadership. With both teams chasing their first-ever NBA title, the stakes could not be higher.
Clash of Underdogs: Small Markets Take Center Stage
The Thunder and Pacers represent a refreshing shift in NBA dynamics, proving that smart roster construction and internal development can rival the spending power of larger-market teams.
Oklahoma City finished the regular season with a league-best 68–14 record. Spearheaded by newly crowned MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder cruised through the Western Conference playoffs. They dispatched the Memphis Grizzlies, dethroned the defending champion Denver Nuggets, and then overcame the red-hot Minnesota Timberwolves to earn their spot in the Finals.
Indiana, on the other hand, entered the postseason as the fourth seed in the East with a 50–32 record. Their playoff run was anything but easy. The Pacers took down Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks in a hard-fought six-game series, battled past the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven, and stunned the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals to advance.
Shai vs. Tyrese: The New Guard of the NBA
The Finals spotlight a duel between two of the league’s brightest stars: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton. Gilgeous-Alexander, known for his fluid drives and clutch shooting, has grown into a franchise leader with a calm demeanor and relentless work ethic. His ability to control pace and score at will makes him a formidable opponent.
Haliburton, a first-time All-Star this season, brings a pass-first mentality that elevates his teammates. With elite court vision, shooting range, and basketball IQ, he’s become the heartbeat of the Pacers’ offense. His leadership has been critical in close postseason games, where every possession counts.
Both players are 25 years old and symbolize the league’s next generation of superstar talent.
Supporting Casts Poised to Make the Difference
Beyond the headliners, both teams boast impressive supporting casts that could tip the balance of the series.
For the Thunder, center Isaiah Hartenstein has emerged as a defensive anchor and rebound machine. Acquired last offseason, Hartenstein’s presence in the paint complements the perimeter play of Gilgeous-Alexander and rising star Jalen Williams. Rookie Chet Holmgren, finally healthy, brings rim protection and stretch shooting that opens up the floor.
The Pacers added veteran forward Pascal Siakam midseason in a blockbuster trade. His playoff experience and two-way versatility have added a new dimension to Indiana’s attack. Myles Turner continues to be a dependable rim protector and floor spacer, while Bennedict Mathurin provides scoring punch off the bench.
Coaching Battle: Daigneault vs. Carlisle
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault has earned praise for guiding a young team to the league’s best record. Known for his analytical approach and ability to foster player development, Daigneault has crafted a high-tempo, unselfish system that gets the most out of his roster.
Rick Carlisle, a championship-winning coach with Dallas in 2011, brings a wealth of experience to Indiana’s sideline. His tactical adjustments have been key to the Pacers’ deep run, particularly his ability to exploit mismatches and manage rotations.
Game 1 Recap and What’s Next
Game 1 saw both teams playing with energy and urgency. The Thunder used their home-court advantage to jump out early, but the Pacers clawed back behind timely shooting and tenacious defense. The back-and-forth affair gave fans a taste of what promises to be a closely contested series.
With six more games potentially ahead, the Finals are wide open. Will the Thunder capitalize on their regular-season dominance and youthful depth? Or will the Pacers’ resilience and veteran savvy prove decisive?
A New Chapter in NBA History
No matter the outcome, the 2025 Finals are a triumph for underdog franchises and a testament to the NBA’s evolving landscape. Fans from coast to coast are witnessing history as two overlooked teams write their own legends.
Game 2 is scheduled for June 7, again in Oklahoma City, before the series shifts to Indiana.
