Thunder Crowned 2025 NBA Champions After Game 7 Win Over Pacers

The Oklahoma City Thunder captured their first NBA championship since relocating from Seattle with a 103-91 Game 7 victory over the Indiana Pacers on June 22, 2025. It was a night of historic significance for the franchise and its fans, as the win marked the culmination of years of rebuilding, development, and unwavering belief in their young core.

Led by superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who delivered a signature performance with 29 points, 5 rebounds, and 12 assists, the Thunder controlled the game through defensive intensity and poise under pressure. Gilgeous-Alexander, already named regular-season MVP, added Finals MVP to his résumé, joining an elite class of players who’ve claimed both honors in the same season.

After a closely contested first half, Oklahoma City broke the game open in the third quarter, outscoring Indiana 34-20 and never looking back. Their defense was relentless, forcing 21 turnovers while only committing 7. The Thunder turned those extra possessions into transition points and momentum that kept the crowd at Paycom Center roaring.

Jalen Williams added 20 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, while rookie big man Chet Holmgren chipped in 18 points and 8 rebounds on 75% shooting. Bench contributions from veterans like Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace helped seal the deal, each scoring 10 points and combining for six steals.

On the other side, Bennedict Mathurin led the Pacers with 24 points and 13 rebounds in a valiant effort. T.J. McConnell scored 16 off the bench, but Indiana was plagued by sloppy play and untimely turnovers. The absence of a fully healthy Tyrese Haliburton for most of the game added to their uphill battle.

This championship win carried extra weight for Oklahoma City. Not only was it their first title since relocating from Seattle in 2008, but it came after a league-best 68-14 regular season and years of strategic roster building—highlighted by the Paul George trade that brought Gilgeous-Alexander and the pick that became Jalen Williams.

With a core that’s among the youngest in the league, including Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, Williams, and Wallace, the Thunder’s future is as bright as its present. Sunday’s victory wasn’t just the end of a season—it was the beginning of a potential dynasty.

Oklahoma City’s championship caps off a playoff run defined by defensive excellence, resilience in tough moments, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The Thunder held opponents under 100 points in six postseason games, including this Game 7, where they needed it most.

June 22, 2025, will be remembered as the night the Thunder finally struck gold—and made history in the process.