The 2025 NBA Finals stage is officially set: the Oklahoma City Thunder will battle the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling championship matchup. This marks the Thunder’s first Finals appearance since 2012 and the Pacers’ return after a 25-year absence, last competing for the title in 2000.
2024/25United States
Oklahoma City Thunder
Indiana PacersOklahoma City punched their ticket with a dominant Game 5 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, closing out the series 4-1. The Thunder, who finished the regular season with an outstanding 68-14 record, have cruised through the postseason at 12-4 and enter the Finals as strong favorites at -750 odds (via Caesars Sportsbook).
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Historic Quest
All eyes are on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is aiming to become the first player since Stephen Curry in 2015 to win both the regular season MVP and an NBA title in the same year. The Thunder have been ruthless in execution, jumping to early leads and dictating pace, as shown by their 17-point lead after the first quarter in the Game 5 clincher.
Pacers’ Resilient Run to the Finals
Meanwhile, the Pacers carved out a gritty path to the Finals with a series of comeback wins, most notably a Game 1 shocker against the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals. Indiana closed the series in six games, showcasing resilience and depth throughout their postseason run.
Complete 2025 NBA Playoff Recap
The 2025 postseason began with 20 teams. Here’s how the journey unfolded:
- Play-In Eliminations: Kings, Mavericks, Bulls, Hawks
- First Round Exits: Grizzlies, Clippers, Lakers, Rockets, Heat, Bucks, Pistons, Magic
- Second Round Knockouts: Nuggets, Warriors, Cavaliers, Celtics
- Conference Finals Losses: Timberwolves (West), Knicks (East)
2025 NBA Finals Schedule
- Game 1: Thunder vs. Pacers – Thursday, June 6
- Game 2: Thunder vs. Pacers – Sunday, June 9
- Game 3: Pacers vs. Thunder – Wednesday, June 12
- Game 4: Pacers vs. Thunder – Friday, June 14
- Game 5: Thunder vs. Pacers – Monday, June 17
- Game 6: Pacers vs. Thunder – Thursday, June 20
- Game 7: Thunder vs. Pacers – Sunday, June 23
Stay tuned for expert analysis, betting breakdowns, and tactical previews as the Thunder and Pacers vie for the 2025 NBA crown.