Pacers and Thunder Meet in Historic NBA Finals
The NBA Finals are finally here, and two unlikely contenders are set to face off in what promises to be a thrilling, high-octane series. The Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder have taken very different paths to reach this point, but both arrive with something to prove. Neither franchise has won a championship under its current name, making this year's Finals all the more meaningful for fans and players alike. With dynamic stars, fast-paced offenses, and hungry rosters, this battle is shaping up to be one for the history books.
The Indiana Pacers entered the 2025 NBA Playoffs as underdogs, but they have consistently silenced doubters with their resilience and team-first mentality. After dispatching the Milwaukee Bucks in a tough first-round series, they pulled off a stunning upset in the second round, defeating the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in just five games. Their momentum only grew as they outlasted the New York Knicks in six games during the Eastern Conference Finals. Now, the Pacers find themselves in the NBA Finals for just the second time in franchise history, riding a wave of confidence and belief.
Historically, the Pacers are one of ten NBA franchises that have never captured a championship. Their only other Finals appearance came in 2000 when a veteran team led by Reggie Miller and Jalen Rose reached the league’s grandest stage. That group ultimately fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games, outmatched by the dominant duo of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. While that loss still lingers in the memories of longtime fans, this current team is determined to forge a different legacy.
Awaiting the Pacers in the Finals are the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team that has been among the most impressive in the league all season long. Though the franchise's only championship came in 1979 as the Seattle SuperSonics, the Thunder have rebuilt themselves into a formidable force through smart drafting and player development. Led by All-NBA guard and 2025 MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, they have stormed through the Western Conference Playoffs with confidence and consistency. They enter the Finals as the betting favorite, possessing depth, size, athleticism, and playoff experience.
Despite being seen as the underdog yet again, Indiana has embraced that role throughout this playoff run. The team has shown remarkable chemistry, toughness, and determination, especially when the odds were stacked against them. Tyrese Haliburton has taken his game to a new level, dazzling fans and opponents alike with his elite vision, clutch shooting, and leadership. Fans are starting to recognize him as a superstar. Alongside him, 2025 Eastern Conference Finals MVP and 2019 NBA champion Pascal Siakam has brought a winning mentality and veteran presence that has proven invaluable in big moments.
The head-to-head matchup between Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the most exciting storylines heading into the Finals. Both guards are among the league’s elite playmakers and will be central to their teams’ success. The pace of play will be lightning-fast, as both squads rank among the top in tempo and transition scoring. Fans can expect a series filled with highlight-reel plays, high-scoring affairs, and dramatic momentum swings.
As the NBA Finals tip off on June 5th, both franchises carry the weight of history and the hope of rewriting it. The Pacers are looking to finally bring a title to Indiana after decades of a close call and heartbreak, while the Thunder aim to claim their first championship under their current name. While Oklahoma City may have the paper edge, Indiana has proven throughout these playoffs that heart, grit, and teamwork can overcome even the toughest matchups. No matter which team hoists the Larry O’Brien Trophy, this series is poised to be a classic that fans will remember for years to come.
