Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Time: 8:30 PM ET
Venue: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Broadcast: ABC, ESPN+
Match Overview
The Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder matchup marks the beginning of the 2025 NBA Finals, with both teams vying for their first-ever NBA Championship. The Thunder enter the series as the top seed in the Western Conference, while the Pacers have defied expectations to emerge as the Eastern Conference champions.
Team Form & Recent Results
- Oklahoma City Thunder (1st seed, 12-3 in playoffs) – The Thunder dominated the Western Conference Finals, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games. Led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, OKC boasts one of the league’s most efficient offenses and a top-ranked defense.
- Indiana Pacers (4th seed, 12-6 in playoffs) – The Pacers secured their spot in the Finals after a hard-fought six-game series against the New York Knicks. Pascal Siakam was named Eastern Conference Finals MVP, while Tyrese Haliburton orchestrated Indiana’s offense with precision.
Key Players to Watch
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC) – The 2025 NBA MVP has been unstoppable, averaging 35 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in the Western Conference Finals.
- Chet Holmgren (OKC) – The rookie sensation has been a defensive anchor, averaging 10.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game.
- Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana) – The Pacers’ floor general has been elite in playmaking, ranking third in assists per game this postseason.
- Pascal Siakam (Indiana) – The former NBA champion brings experience and scoring versatility, averaging 31 points in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Tactical Breakdown
- OKC’s Strengths: Elite defense, fast-paced offense, and dominant rebounding.
- Indiana’s Weaknesses: Turnover concerns, reliance on perimeter shooting.
- Game Plan: OKC will look to pressure Haliburton, forcing Indiana into tough half-court sets, while the Pacers must limit turnovers and capitalize on transition opportunities.
How to Watch & Follow
Fans can catch the action live on ABC and ESPN+. For real-time updates, follow @Pacers and @OKCThunder on social media.
Game Odds
Indiana Pacers 230.5
Oklahoma City Thunder – 9
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 4, 2025
