OKLAHOMA CITY — When the stakes were highest, the Thunder emerged like seasoned champions.
Throughout the series, Indiana's tight defense shackled the Thunder's usual free-flowing offense, forcing Oklahoma City into uncharacteristic isolation plays and stifling their rhythm. But as the final half of Game 7 unfolded, the Thunder shed their shackles and soared, forcing 13 turnovers from the Pacers and transforming them into 18 vibrant points. Pace quickened. Shots found their mark. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander orchestrated the symphony, blending scoring brilliance with playmaking artistry, leading his team to a triumphal 103-91 victory — a crowning moment as Oklahoma City celebrated its first NBA title since the team's relocation.
Gilgeous-Alexander, embodying an MVP’s poise, poured in 29 points and handed out 12 assists, securing his rightful place as the NBA Finals MVP, a feat matched only by the illustrious LeBron James in 2013. His impregnable play in Game 7, dissecting defenses, converting fadeaways, and delivering pinpoint passes, solidified his name alongside legendary greats.
The first quarter, however, was a battleground. Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers seemed poised for a breakout, sinking deep threes, energizing Indiana's side. Yet fate dealt a cruel blow as Haliburton crumpled with a devastating Achilles injury, muting the arena's collective breath.
Despite the setback, Indiana clung ferociously to their defensive tenacity, leading 48-47 at halftime behind stellar outings from Pascal Siakam and T.J. McConnell, each netting 16 points.
But as second-half action commenced, momentum shifted. Thunder's relentless pressure and timely rebounding lit the fuse to Oklahoma City's explosive run, marked most notably by a Lu Dort buzzer-beater from deep that revitalized the team's spirits.
Piercing through Pacers' fragmented resistance, the Thunder found their stroke, unleashing a barrage of three-pointers that propelled them to a commanding 81-68 edge by the third quarter's end. While Indiana soldiered on bravely, Oklahoma City's destiny was sealed. The trophy was theirs, bringing the kind of joy that spread right through to the streets, despite an amusing hiccup in the locker room with champagne bottling skills needing polish.
Isaiah Hartenstein, chuckling, recounted the moment, "None of us knew how to open it. It was a YouTube search challenge until Alex Caruso showed us the ropes."
In the end, whatever the celebratory libation, the Thunder’s night glittered with euphoria and hope for future dynasties, celebrating their legacy built on the echoes of a historic season.
