Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered when it mattered most. In Game 7 of the NBA Finals, he stepped up with a 29-point performance to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 103-91 win over the Indiana Pacers, securing the franchise’s first NBA championship since 1979. It was a moment that Thunder fans have waited decades for — and it finally came together on the biggest stage.
From the start, the game had the intensity you’d expect from a winner-takes-all final. The crowd was loud, the pace was quick, and both teams played with visible nerves. But it was Gilgeous-Alexander who remained calm and composed. He scored from mid-range, attacked the rim, and knocked down clutch free throws. With each possession, he looked more like the MVP candidate he’s been all season.
The Thunder built an early lead in the first half, fueled by aggressive defense and strong rebounding. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren contributed key plays on both ends of the court, helping the Thunder head into halftime with a 10-point advantage. Indiana tried to fight back in the third quarter, and Tyrese Haliburton kept the Pacers in the game with his shot-making and court vision, but it wasn’t enough.
The Thunder responded with a dominant fourth quarter. Every time the Pacers tried to close the gap, Oklahoma City answered with big shots — and more often than not, it was Gilgeous-Alexander delivering them. He ended the game shooting 10-of-18 from the field and 8-of-9 from the free-throw line, showing poise under pressure. His calm demeanor set the tone for the team, and his leadership was undeniable.
Chet Holmgren, in his first full NBA season, had a major impact as well. The 7-footer finished with a double-double and protected the paint with authority, blocking multiple shots and grabbing tough rebounds. His presence made it difficult for Indiana’s bigs to get into a rhythm.
This championship marks a major moment for the Thunder, who were one of the youngest teams in the league. Just a few seasons ago, they were in full rebuild mode after trading away stars like Russell Westbrook and Paul George. But thanks to smart drafting and player development, they’ve climbed back to the top faster than many expected.
Head coach Mark Daigneault deserves credit for managing the team with a steady hand all season. His ability to develop young players and keep them focused paid off in the biggest moments. Throughout the playoffs, the Thunder played disciplined, unselfish basketball, and Game 7 was no different.
On the other side, the Pacers had a historic run of their own. They reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000 and gave the Thunder everything they had. Haliburton was impressive throughout the series, and players like Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner had their moments. But in the end, the Pacers couldn’t overcome the Thunder’s energy, depth, and the star power of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
With the championship win, Gilgeous-Alexander has firmly cemented himself as one of the league’s elite players. His playoff performances throughout this run — especially in high-pressure games — have been nothing short of remarkable. Many are now putting his name in the conversation for the best guard in the NBA.
As confetti rained down and fans in Oklahoma City celebrated the long-awaited title, there was a sense of something special being built. This team isn’t just a one-time champion — it’s a young squad with the potential to be in the title conversation for years to come.
For Thunder fans, this victory is more than a championship. It’s a validation of patience, smart planning, and belief in a young core that has matured into something great. The city, the players, and the coaching staff all came together at the perfect time to make history.
The 2025 NBA season now ends with Oklahoma City on top — a reminder that dynasties can start in the most unexpected ways, and that hard work, heart, and talent still win in the end.
