Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder – Comparison
NBA Finals 2025 Game 7 offered basketball fans a rare and exciting showdown a Game 7 between two teams that no one expected to make it this far: the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Neither team had made it to the Finals in years, and both were determined to seize this golden opportunity. What unfolded in Game 7 was a fiercely contested battle filled with strategic brilliance, game-changing performances, and high-pressure moments that determined the outcome.
In this in-depth comparison, we explore how each team compared to the Finals, coaching styles, the contributions of star players, and what ultimately separated the Pacers and Thunder when the final whistle blew.
Road to Game 7
Indiana Pacers: Steady climb through the East
Indiana’s journey to the Finals was anything but easy. As an often overlooked team, they built momentum in the second half of the season. Tyrese Haliburton’s development into a top playmaker, combined with Pascal Siakam’s midseason impact, propelled Indiana past strong teams like Boston and Milwaukee.
During the playoffs, the Pacers relied on a balanced approach not just on offense, but also with surprisingly effective defense. Coach Rick Carlisle kept things focused and simple, allowing the team’s chemistry to shine through. Each game boosted their confidence and allowed them to perform strongly when it mattered most.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Young Players Rise
On the West Side, Oklahoma City surprised everyone with their composure and pace. This was the youngest team in the playoffs, but that didn’t stop them from outplaying veteran teams like the Nuggets and Timberwolves. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) took center stage, with his calm decision-making and excellent scoring ability helping the team advance.
Chet Holmgren, a rookie with a rare combination of size and skill, added shot blocking and three-point range. Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey supported with efficient scoring and solid defense. Coach Mark Daigneault’s fast, positionless strategy made OKC one of the strongest teams in the league.
Game 7 Analysis
Indiana: Calm Under Fire
As Game 7 began, the Pacers showed the value of experience and composure. Tyrese Haliburton led the offense like a seasoned veteran, dishing out 15 assists and making timely 3-pointers. Pascal Siakam showed grit, finishing with 22 points and 11 rebounds in a double-double that underscored his value on both ends of the court.
Despite foul trouble that limited Myles Turner for long stretches, Indiana’s bench took control. Obi Toppin added energy and scoring ability, while Andrew Nembhard kept the pace steady. The Pacers didn’t try to do too much – they played to their strengths, and it paid off in the crucial moments.
Oklahoma City: Greatness, Late Game Fights
Oklahoma City battled through the game, led by SGA’s 30-point night. Their ability to create the ball off the dribble and finish through contact was on full display. Holmgren protected the rim and made two crucial three-pointers, while Jalen Williams contributed solid mid-range shots.
The Thunder’s youth showed in the final minutes, though. Turnovers, missed defensive rotations and poor free throws cost them dearly. As Indiana slowed down and forced half-court sets, OKC’s rhythm disappeared. They couldn’t find the pace and composure when it mattered most.
Coaching Battle: Carlisle vs. Daigneault
Rick Carlisle brought his Finals experience into play. He emphasized discipline, defense, and half-court execution. Carlisle knew that OKC thrived in transition and worked to disrupt that by managing possessions and forcing them into more structured offense. His timeout usage, defensive matchups, and late-game play calling were all spot on.
Mark Daigneault’s modern, high-paced offense had worked wonders throughout the playoffs, but Game 7 exposed its risks. The Thunder’s reliance on youth and momentum couldn’t overcome the Pacers’ tactical adjustments. While Daigneault is clearly a rising coaching star, this loss offered valuable lessons in managing playoff pressure and adapting mid-game.
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Head to Head: Haliburton vs. SGA
Two of the league’s best young guards squared off under the brightest lights, and their performances tell the story of this game.
| Stat | Tyrese Haliburton | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 26 | 30 |
| Assists | 15 | 7 |
| 3PT Shooting | 5-9 | 1-4 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 5 |
| Clutch Impact | High | Medium |
While SGA led in points, Haliburton’s ability to control tempo and limit mistakes gave Indiana the edge. He made the right decisions down the stretch and delivered in the moments that mattered most.
Statistical Comparison – Team Efficiency
| Category | Indiana Pacers | OKC Thunder |
|---|---|---|
| FG Percentage | 48.5% | 44.2% |
| Three-Point % | 39.3% | 31.7% |
| Free Throws | 82% | 74% |
| Turnovers | 10 | 16 |
| Bench Points | 31 | 19 |
Indiana clearly outperformed OKC in terms of efficiency and ball control. They shot better from deep, made more free throws, and kept turnovers low key factors in high-pressure games like this.
The X-Factor: Veteran Presence
What really set Indiana apart was the combination of youthful energy and veteran leadership. Siakam, a former champion in Toronto, brought invaluable experience to the locker room and on the court. Even role players like TJ McConnell provided stability. For OKC, most of the team experienced the intensity of the Finals for the first time, and it showed in the final five minutes.
What this win means for Indiana?
This is more than just a championship. It’s a milestone for the Pacers. For the first time in franchise history, they’ve won an NBA title. Tyrese Haliburton is now officially a superstar, and Rick Carlisle’s coaching legacy is firmly entrenched. This win validates Indiana’s patient rebuilding, smart deals, and internal development.
What’s next for OKC?
Despite the heartbreaking loss, the Thunder have every reason to be proud. This young team isn’t going anywhere they have a strong roster, future draft picks, and a clear identity. With SGA, Holmgren, and Williams at the helm, Oklahoma City could dominate the West for years to come. Game 7 was just the beginning of their journey.
Final Statement
Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals was a fitting end to a thrilling season. The Pacers showed how smart basketball, balanced lineups, and strong leadership can overcome even the most talented young teams. The Thunder, on the other hand, proved that their future is bright, even if the present is fraught with growing pains.
Indiana’s 112-107 win wasn’t just a win it was a statement. A new champion has arrived, and the NBA landscape may never be the same. You can follow NBA here.
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