Who won the 2025 NBA Finals?

The Oklahoma City Thunder won the 2025 NBA Finals, defeating the Indiana Pacers 4–3 in a seven-game series.

Who was named the Finals MVP in 2025?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named Finals MVP after scoring 29 points and 12 assists in Game 7.

When did the Thunder last win a championship?

The Thunder franchise last won a championship in 1979 as the Seattle SuperSonics; this was their first title since relocating to Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City Thunder Clinch First NBA Championship

Oklahoma City Thunder Make History: 2025 NBA Champions

In an unforgettable night for basketball fans worldwide, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, clinching their first NBA Championship since the franchise relocated from Seattle to Oklahoma City in 2008. The game, played at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on June 22, 2025, ended with a final score of 103–91, marking a monumental chapter in the team’s history (nba.com, reuters.com).

This victory was more than just a championship—it symbolized years of rebuilding, strategic drafting, and trust in young talent, led by General Manager Sam Presti. For fans who witnessed the heartbreak of the Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook era without a ring, this moment was redemption.

A Series for the Ages: OKC vs. Indiana Pacers

The 2025 NBA Finals will be remembered as one of the most competitive series in recent history. Both the Thunder and Pacers fought hard through a best-of-seven showdown that showcased elite basketball and resilience.

Game 1 & 2: Thunder dominated early at home, taking a 2-0 lead.
Game 3 & 4: Pacers roared back in Indiana, evening the series 2-2.
Game 5: Thunder regained momentum in OKC, leading 3-2.
Game 6: Pacers forced a Game 7 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Game 7: Thunder closed out the series in style on their home court.

The Game 7 atmosphere was electric. With both teams tied at 3-3, everything was on the line. Early in the first quarter, the game took a dramatic turn when Pacers’ star guard Tyrese Haliburton suffered a torn Achilles, a devastating blow that shook Indiana fans and players alike.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Finals MVP and Face of a New Era

The spotlight, however, belonged to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA), who delivered 29 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds in Game 7. His leadership throughout the playoffs and stellar play earned him the Finals MVP award (espn.com).

SGA, who also won the 2024-25 NBA Regular Season MVP, has now cemented his status as one of the league’s premier superstars. Speaking after the game, he said:

“This moment means everything. We believed in the process, in each other, and now the city of Oklahoma has a championship to celebrate.”

Historic Context: 46-Year Drought Ends

Oklahoma City Thunder ends 46-year championship drought with historic 2025 NBA Finals victory

The Thunder’s victory ends a 46-year championship drought for the franchise, dating back to 1979 when they were the Seattle SuperSonics. That year, the Sonics, led by Jack Sikma and Dennis Johnson, defeated the Washington Bullets to claim their only title before relocation.

Now, the 2025 triumph marks:

First title since moving to Oklahoma City in 2008.
The second championship in franchise history.
A monumental moment for a small-market team that built through the draft and avoided expensive superstar trades (en.wikipedia.org).

How the Thunder Built a Championship Roster

This championship run was no accident. It was the result of years of patient team-building:

Sam Presti’s Draft Genius: Acquiring SGA from the Clippers and drafting young stars like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams.
Player Development: Turning raw talent into polished contributors.
Strategic Cap Management: Avoiding expensive veteran signings in favor of developing homegrown talent.

The team’s 68-14 regular season record speaks volumes about their dominance. This is now considered one of the best regular-season performances in NBA history.

Pacers’ Grit Despite Setback

While the Thunder celebrated, the Indiana Pacers earned respect for their resilience. They reached the Finals for the first time since 2000 and pushed the Thunder to the brink. Tyrese Haliburton, prior to his injury, had been sensational throughout the playoffs, averaging 24 points and 9 assists.

However, his Game 7 injury changed everything. Despite strong performances from Bennedict Mathurin and Myles Turner, the Pacers couldn’t withstand the Thunder’s relentless attack.

Key Moments in Game 7

First Half Battle: Both teams traded leads; OKC held a slim 48-45 halftime advantage.
Third Quarter Surge: Thunder outscored Pacers 32-18 in the third quarter, led by SGA and Chet Holmgren’s inside dominance.
Closing the Deal: With the home crowd roaring, OKC maintained a double-digit lead through the fourth quarter, sealing the win.

What This Means for the NBA

The Thunder’s championship signals a new era for small-market teams. It proves that smart drafting, development, and patience can compete with big-market spending.

Analysts now wonder: