The Oklahoma City Thunder have made history by winning their first NBA championship since relocating from Seattle in 2008. They defeated the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the NBA Finals, capping an extraordinary season with a 68-14 record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), led the scoring with 29 points and 12 assists, also earning the Finals MVP award.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for the Thunder, who have shown remarkable determination and skill throughout the season. Despite the Pacers’ valiant efforts, they were unable to overcome the loss of their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered an Achilles injury midway through the first quarter. The Thunder’s stifling defense in the second half ultimately dashed the Pacers’ title hopes.
“It doesn’t feel real,” Gilgeous-Alexander said, reflecting on the team’s hard work and dedication. “So many hours, so many moments, so many emotions, so many nights of disbelief, so many nights of belief. This group works hard. This group put in the hours, and we deserve this.”
The Thunder’s youth was evident in their post-game celebration, with centre Isaiah Hartenstein praising 31-year-old Alex Caruso for teaching the team how to open celebratory champagne bottles. Caruso, who played on the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 title team, expressed his hope that his experience would pay off again in the future. “We’ll get some rest, rest, try to do it again next year,” Caruso said. “We’ll be better [at it] next year.”
The Pacers’ TJ McConnell scored 12 points in the third quarter, hitting six of Indiana’s eight field goals in the frame. Bennedict Mathurin led the Pacers with 24 points off the bench, while Pascal Siakam and McConnell added 16 points each. Despite their efforts, the Pacers remain without an NBA title.
The Thunder’s championship win is a testament to their perseverance and teamwork. As the team looks to the future, they will aim to build on this success and continue to make their mark on the NBA.