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Indiana Pacers Fall Short in NBA Finals as Oklahoma City Thunder Clinch Championship with Defensive Masterclass

First Quarter


The Indiana Pacers faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the decisive Game 7 of the NBA Finals, held at Paycom Center. The game began with both teams displaying intense energy and determination. The Thunder took an early lead, scoring 25 points compared to the Pacers' 22. Despite a strong start by Indiana's Bennedict Mathurin, who had been a key player throughout the series, OKC's defense proved formidable.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 22: Obi Toppin #1 of the Indiana Pacers drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Morgan Givens/NBAE via Getty Images)

Second Quarter


As the second quarter unfolded, Pascal Siakam of the Pacers attempted to rally his team with crucial plays and defensive efforts. However, Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his offensive prowess, helping maintain their lead by adding another 22 points to their tally while Indiana managed 26 points. The quarter was marked by strategic plays from both sides but ended with OKC still ahead.


Third Quarter


The third quarter saw a significant shift as OKC extended their lead dramatically. Scoring an impressive 34 points against Indiana's 20, they capitalized on turnovers and fast breaks. Despite Myles Turner's efforts in defense for Indiana and T.J. McConnell contributing offensively with assists and rebounds, it was not enough to close the gap created by OKC's relentless attack.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 22: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers shoots the ball during the game as Alex Caruso #9 of the Oklahoma City Thunder defends during Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Fourth Quarter


Entering the final quarter trailing behind significantly, Indiana needed a comeback miracle which unfortunately did not materialize fully despite their best efforts. They scored 23 points but were unable to overcome Oklahoma City's solid defense which allowed only minimal scoring opportunities for key players like Tyrese Haliburton who struggled under pressure from OKC’s defenders.


In this high-stakes finale of playoff series tied at three games each prior tonight’s matchup – ultimately ending in favor of Thundercats’ victory securing them championship title after winning Game Seven decisively over visiting team: final score reading: Thunder -103; Pacers -91


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 22: Chet Holmgren #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

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