The Oklahoma City Thunder are NBA champions for the first time in franchise history after defeating the Indiana Pacers, 103-91, in Game 7 on Sunday night behind a masterclass from league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The win capped a historic season in which Oklahoma City posted a league-best 68 wins and claimed the city’s first major professional sports title.
Gilgeous-Alexander delivered 29 points, 12 assists, and a relentless defensive effort to earn Finals MVP honors, rallying the Thunder past a shorthanded Indiana team that lost star Tyrese Haliburton to an apparent Achilles injury late in the first quarter. Indiana briefly led at halftime, but a suffocating Thunder defense and second-half surges from Jalen Williams (20 points) and Chet Holmgren (18 points, 5 blocks) sealed the outcome.
The Pacers fought valiantly behind Bennedict Mathurin’s 24-point, 13-rebound effort, but Oklahoma City’s 21-7 turnover advantage and 32-10 edge in points off takeaways proved decisive.
Despite the heartbreaking end for Indiana, its improbable postseason run will be remembered — while Oklahoma City celebrates a championship season built on youth, grit, and the brilliance of its MVP.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.