Game 1 Delivers Classic Thunder vs Pacers Drama
The NBA Finals tipped off with fireworks as the Oklahoma City Thunder snatched a high-stakes Game 1 victory over the Indiana Pacers, winning 113–108 in front of a packed Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd.
The opening clash between the Thunder and Pacers not only delivered on anticipation — it set a tone for what could become a Finals series to remember. From clutch threes to fierce inside battles, both teams showed they’re ready for a long series.
“This team’s not backing down,” said OKC head coach Mark Daigneault postgame. “We weathered the storm tonight—and we’ll need to do it again.”
Fourth-Quarter Clutch: Thunder Close with Authority
After trailing by 9 early in the third quarter, the Thunder stormed back behind stellar performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and rookie sensation Chet Holmgren, who combined for 51 points. A critical 11–2 run midway through the fourth flipped momentum, quieting the home crowd.
Indiana’s late push, including a deep three from Tyrese Haliburton and a key block by Myles Turner, came up just short as OKC held its composure at the free throw line in the final minute.
Credit: William Purnell / Getty Images file
OKC’s Youth Shines on the Big Stage
What stood out most in OKC vs Pacers was the Thunder’s poise. Despite being the youngest team in the Finals, OKC didn’t flinch under pressure. Holmgren’s rim protection and composure, paired with Josh Giddey’s court vision, gave the Pacers trouble on both ends.
In postgame interviews, the Thunder players emphasised their team-first mindset and calm execution—a testament to their rapid development throughout the postseason.
“We’re built for this,” Holmgren told reporters. “Everyone eats. Everyone defends. We just love playing together.”
Pacers’ Early Control Slips Away
For much of the first half, the Pacers vs Thunder duel was going Indiana’s way. Haliburton set the tone with early transition buckets, and Bennedict Mathurin brought the energy off the bench. However, Indiana’s offense stalled in key moments during the second half, with unforced turnovers and missed perimeter shots opening the door for OKC.
The Pacers were particularly hurt on the boards, with the Thunder outrebounding them 44–35, including 11 offensive rebounds.
Key Stats from Game 1
- Thunder: Gilgeous-Alexander – 28 pts, 6 ast; Holmgren – 23 pts, 12 reb
- Pacers: Haliburton – 24 pts, 9 ast; Turner – 19 pts, 3 blk
- Thunder outscored Pacers 29–21 in the 4th
- OKC shot 48% from the field; Pacers at 45%
- Both teams committed 12 turnovers
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Fans React: “The Finals Are On”
Social media exploded during the final quarter. On X.com, hashtags like #ThunderVsPacers, #NBAGame1, and #ShaiTime trended globally. Australian fans rallied around Giddey’s strong defensive performance and key assists, praising his growing presence as a Finals-caliber floor general.
Meanwhile, Pacers supporters remain confident. “We dropped Game 1. Doesn’t mean we’ll drop the series,” one fan tweeted from Gainbridge.
Entering a New Era of the NBA
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— Sky Sport NZ (@skysportnz) June 3, 2025
What’s Next in the Thunder vs Pacers Series?
Game 2 is scheduled in Indianapolis before the series shifts to Oklahoma City for Games 3 and 4. Adjustments are expected from both sides. Indiana will likely look to tighten up its rebounding and three-point defense, while OKC may double down on their inside-out game that proved effective in crunch time.
“This is going seven,” said one ESPN analyst. “And it’s going to be brutal.”
Credit: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
Conclusion: A Finals Worth Watching
The Thunder vs Pacers Finals opener was a masterclass in playoff intensity, showcasing emerging stars and high-level execution. With OKC drawing first blood and Indiana hungry to respond, basketball fans are in for a Finals series that could rank among the greats.
Game 2 can’t come soon enough.
