For the first time in 25 years, the Indiana Pacers are headed back to the NBA Finals. They’ll face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who finished the regular season with the league’s best record and have looked unstoppable in the playoffs so far. Game 1 tips off on Thursday, June 5, in Oklahoma City.
The Pacers have shocked many fans this season. Led by star guard Tyrese Haliburton and forward Pascal Siakam, Indiana battled through a tough series to get past the Milwaukee Bucks and the New York Knicks. Their fast-paced offense and team chemistry have made them one of the most exciting teams to watch.
On the other side, the Thunder have dominated all year long. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander playing at an MVP level and strong support from Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, OKC looks ready to win its first championship since moving from Seattle. They’ve already beaten strong teams like the Mavericks and Timberwolves in the Western Conference.
This Finals matchup is unique— it features two teams full of young, hungry players looking to make history. The Pacers want their first-ever NBA title. The Thunder want to prove they’re the real deal after years of rebuilding.
The series is expected to be fast, high-scoring, and full of big moments. While the Thunder are the favorites, don’t count out the Pacers. They’ve been underdogs all playoffs, and that’s worked out pretty well for them so far.
Game 1 begins Thursday night on ABC at 8:30 PM ET.
