Oklahoma City, June 22, 2025 — In a dramatic culmination to the 2024–25 NBA season, the Oklahoma City Thunder emerged victorious, clinching their second-ever NBA championship with a 103–91 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the Finals. The triumph not only marked the franchise’s first title since relocating from Seattle to Oklahoma City in 2008 but also signaled the Thunder’s arrival as a dominant force in the league.
At the heart of this historic victory stood Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, whose standout performances throughout the series earned him the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors. Already named the league’s regular season MVP and scoring champion, Gilgeous-Alexander etched his name into the record books by joining the elite ranks of players—alongside legends like Michael Jordan and Shaquille O’Neal—to claim the scoring title, regular-season MVP, and Finals MVP in the same year.
In Game 7, Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a commanding performance, recording 29 points and 12 assists, showcasing his clutch scoring, court vision, and calm leadership. He was supported by rising stars Jalen Williams, who added 20 points, and Chet Holmgren, who contributed 18 points and a dominant defensive presence.
Despite a resilient effort from the Pacers, their hopes were hampered by the early exit of star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered a serious Achilles injury. The Thunder capitalized on the moment, particularly in the third quarter where they outscored Indiana by 14 points, setting the stage for a decisive win in front of an electrified home crowd.
The 2024–25 season had already been a record-breaking campaign for the Thunder. They posted a franchise-best 68–14 regular-season record, and their 84 total wins including playoffs tied for the third-most in NBA history. Under the guidance of head coach Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City transformed from a rebuilding team into a championship-caliber squad in just a few short seasons, fueled by smart drafting, player development, and a culture of resilience.
“This group worked for it. This group put in the hours and we deserve this,” said Gilgeous-Alexander in a postgame interview. “It doesn’t feel real yet—but we made history tonight.”
Coach Daigneault praised the team’s unity and professionalism, stating, “They behave like champions. They compete like champions. This is an uncommon group—and now they’re champions.”
The championship also marks a symbolic milestone for the franchise. Oklahoma City’s only previous NBA title came in 1979 when the team was based in Seattle as the SuperSonics. Since relocating, the Thunder have experienced playoff highs and heartbreaks, including a Finals loss in 2012. The 2025 title finally brings the long-awaited championship glory to the city’s passionate fanbase.
Celebrations erupted across downtown Oklahoma City following the Game 7 win, with fans flooding the streets waving banners and chanting “Let’s Go Thunder!” City officials responded swiftly, announcing plans for a public victory parade and rally scheduled for the upcoming weekend. Mayor David Holt praised the team’s accomplishment, calling it “a defining moment in our city’s sports history.”
Oklahoma City becomes the seventh different NBA champion in seven years, underscoring a new era of parity and competitive balance in the league. The Thunder’s victory, driven by homegrown talent and team-first principles, is being hailed as a blueprint for sustainable success in the modern NBA.
With a young core, ample draft assets, and a deep bench, many analysts believe the Thunder are poised to remain title contenders for years to come. As the celebrations continue, Oklahoma City fans now look forward to what could be the beginning of a new dynasty in the making.
