Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) shoots under Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander during the second half of Game 4 of the NBA Finals basketball series, Friday, June 13, 2025, in Indianapolis.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are just one step away from NBA glory. On Monday night, they claimed a crucial 120-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. With the win, the Thunder now lead the series 3-2 and are poised to capture the championship.
Jalen Williams delivered a spectacular playoff performance, scoring a career-high 40 points. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s MVP from Hamilton, Ontario, contributed 31 points and 10 assists. The duo’s combined 71 points marked the 10th time they’ve achieved that feat — but this was their most important showing yet.
Thunder Stars Shine Bright
Williams was unstoppable from the floor, shooting 14 of 24 and playing with confidence throughout. Gilgeous-Alexander, as always, led with poise and control, guiding his team’s offense while making clutch plays when it mattered most. Their chemistry and relentless drive gave the Thunder their edge.
This high-scoring performance wasn’t just about numbers — it was a statement. The Thunder are ready, and the title is now within reach.
Pacers Battle Back but Fall Short
Former Raptors standout Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 28 points. TJ McConnell added 18, helping Indiana erase most of an 18-point Thunder lead. The Pacers got within four points early in the fourth quarter, but they couldn’t hold off Oklahoma City’s final push.
Tyrese Haliburton, nursing a leg injury, struggled to be effective. His limited role forced the Pacers to look elsewhere for offense, and while they made it close, they couldn’t finish the comeback.
Oklahoma City in Control of the Series
History now favors the Thunder. Teams that win Game 5 of the NBA Finals when the series is tied 2-2 go on to win the title 74% of the time. With a 3-2 lead, the odds jump to 82%. It’s a strong position — and the Thunder know it.
But the game wasn’t a smooth ride.
Pacers Keep It Close
Indiana has been known for rallying from double-digit deficits throughout the playoffs. Monday night was no different. Down by 18 points in the second quarter, the Pacers clawed their way back. McConnell lit up the third quarter, scoring 13 points in under seven minutes. Then Siakam chipped in, hitting two free throws and a clutch three-pointer to bring the score to 95-93.
It was a tense moment. The crowd felt the shift. But Oklahoma City responded with maturity, focus, and grit.
Thunder Close the Door
Despite the Pacers’ push, the Thunder refused to crumble. Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams took over, rebuilding the lead and locking in the win. Their efforts silenced Indiana’s rally and put Oklahoma City in a commanding position heading into Game 6.
Championship Within Sight
The Thunder’s performance was more than just another win — it was a warning. With their stars peaking at the perfect time, Oklahoma City looks like a team ready to end the series and hoist the trophy.
Game 6 will take place in Indiana on Thursday. The Thunder will aim to close it out, while the Pacers fight to stay alive. One more win is all it takes for Oklahoma City.
The stage is set. The Thunder are rolling. The NBA title is just one win away.
