After a tough loss in Game 1, the Oklahoma City Thunder came out in Game 2 with a purpose and left no doubt. Behind a dominant performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 123 to 107 to even the NBA Finals at one game apiece.
Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 34 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, setting the tone early and leading by example on both ends of the floor. His ability to control the pace, make tough shots, and find open teammates helped Oklahoma City shake off the rust from their series-opening defeat.
But it wasn’t just SGA. The Thunder’s supporting cast delivered across the board. Chet Holmgren anchored the defense in the paint, Jalen Williams attacked the rim with confidence, and the bench gave key minutes that allowed Oklahoma City to maintain pressure throughout all four quarters.
Defensively, the Thunder were much more active. They closed out on shooters, rotated more cleanly, and forced the Pacers into tough, contested looks. Indiana struggled to find the same rhythm they had in Game 1, and with turnovers piling up, they were never able to mount a serious comeback.
The energy inside Paycom Center was electric, and the Thunder fed off it. After the final buzzer, it was clear that this young team wasn’t rattled by the stage. They were ready for it.
With the series tied 1 to 1, the Finals now shift to Indiana where the Pacers will look to bounce back on their home floor. But the Thunder have sent a message. They are not just here to compete. They are here to win.
Game 3 is set to be a battle, and if the first two games are any indication, this series is far from over.