The 2025 NBA Finals are officially underway, and for the first time since 2006, two franchises are battling for their first-ever championship. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers have defied expectations and playoff powerhouses to earn their spot on basketball’s biggest stage. Game 1 tips off on June 5, and the series could stretch to June 22 if it reaches a decisive Game 7. With both teams eager to make history, this year’s Finals promises high-stakes drama and legacy-defining moments.
Oklahoma City enters the series with the league’s best regular-season record at 68–14 and will hold home-court advantage throughout. The Thunder’s young core, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, has turned heads all season with their explosive offense and lockdown defense. After dispatching the Minnesota Timberwolves 4–1 in the Western Conference Finals, the Thunder now seek to bring the franchise its first title since its Seattle SuperSonics origins.
On the other side, the Indiana Pacers have become the Cinderella story of the postseason. After finishing sixth in the Eastern Conference, the Pacers surged past the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and New York Knicks to reach their first Finals appearance since 2000. Led by Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and a well-balanced roster, Indiana’s fast-paced, high-efficiency offense has proven to be a matchup nightmare throughout the playoffs. Their victory over the Knicks in six games highlighted their depth and resilience.
This series is also significant for the NBA as a whole. With no repeat champion for the seventh straight season, the league continues its trend of parity and unpredictability. Both teams represent the new era of team-building—emphasizing draft development, cap management, and player versatility. It’s a refreshing change from the superteam era of the past decade and a hopeful sign for smaller-market franchises aiming to contend through strategic planning.
The 2025 NBA Finals will air nationally on ABC, with legendary broadcaster Mike Breen calling his 20th straight Finals. ESPN Radio will also provide live coverage. As the Thunder and Pacers prepare to clash for the Larry O’Brien Trophy, fans can expect a series filled with youthful energy, strategic chess matches, and the raw hunger of two franchises on the brink of making history. No matter who wins, a new champion will be crowned—and a new chapter in NBA lore will be written.