Pacers vs Thunder: NBA Finals Headed to Game 7 Showdown
The 2025 NBA Finals are coming down to one final game. After a thrilling six-game series, the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder are now focused solely on Game 7, which will be played Sunday night in Oklahoma City.
Both coaches made it clear: this moment is a privilege.
“A privilege,” said Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault.
“A great privilege,” echoed Pacers coach Rick Carlisle.
This back-and-forth Finals has seen leads shift throughout: the Pacers led 1-0 and 2-1, while the Thunder took control at 3-2. But now, it’s even at 3-3, and everything is on the line in this winner-take-all Game 7 — the first such finale since 2016.
“We have one game for everything,” said Thunder star and NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “The better team Sunday will win.”
History and Momentum Collide
Historically, home teams dominate Game 7s in the NBA Finals — winning 15 of the last 19. Oklahoma City already proved themselves in a Game 7 earlier this postseason, blowing out the Denver Nuggets. The Pacers, too, cruised past the Knicks last season in a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden.
Yet, recent trends are shifting. Since 2021, road teams have won 9 of the last 14 Game 7s, reminding both squads that past stats don’t guarantee present results.
Haliburton’s Heroic Return
Tyrese Haliburton’s return from a strained right calf in Game 6 was crucial for Indiana. The guard played with energy and confidence, thanks in part to round-the-clock treatment — and the support of his family, who constantly reminded him to stay on top of rehab.
“There’s nothing like a Game 7 in the NBA Finals,” Haliburton said. “Dreamed of being here my whole life.”
Thunder’s Wake-Up Call
Despite entering Game 6 as heavy favorites, the Thunder were overwhelmed by a 36-9 run from the Pacers, turning a close second quarter into a blowout. Now, Oklahoma City faces the pressure of delivering at home — or being remembered as a great team that fell short.
“They’ll go into Game 7 confident, and so will we,” said Thunder guard Jalen Williams.
Everything Comes Down to Sunday
Both teams are treating this moment with the seriousness it deserves. After reviewing film and conducting light practices, it all comes down to Sunday night. One final game. One champion.
“We played to exhaustion,” said Pacers guard T.J. McConnell. “But we have to do it again on Sunday.”
