The 2025 NBA Finals are here — and nobody saw this coming. In a postseason full of upsets, drama, and breakout performances, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers have emerged from the chaos to battle for the Larry O’Brien Trophy. Two of the youngest and most exciting teams in the league are set to write a new chapter in NBA history.
A Finals First: Thunder vs. Pacers
This is the first time Oklahoma City and Indiana will face off in the NBA Finals, and it marks the first Finals appearance for both franchises in over a decade. For the Pacers, it’s their first since 2000. For the Thunder, it’s their first since the KD-Harden-Russ era in 2012.
And unlike that 2012 squad, this Thunder team is built on patience, smart drafting, and elite development. The same can be said for Indiana, a team that flipped the narrative by trading a star (Domantas Sabonis) and turning that gamble into a fast-paced, high-scoring juggernaut.
Oklahoma City: Built Different
Led by MVP finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder have been a force all season. His midrange mastery, clutch shot-making, and unselfish leadership have powered OKC to the top of the West. But it’s not just SGA — Chet Holmgren has been a defensive anchor, Jalen Williams continues to shine as a two-way threat, and the Thunder’s depth is second to none.
With Mark Daigneault pulling the strings from the sideline, OKC plays with purpose, versatility, and maturity beyond their years. They took down the defending champion Nuggets, outlasted the Timberwolves, and now have their sights set on finishing the job.
Indiana: The Fastest Show on Hardwood
Nobody plays faster than the Pacers — and nobody has more fun doing it. Tyrese Haliburton has blossomed into one of the NBA’s premier point guards, turning defense into offense with pinpoint passing and unlimited range. With shooters like Bennedict Mathurin, and the rise of Pascal Siakam as a playoff closer, Indiana’s offense can explode at any moment.
But don’t sleep on their defense. Myles Turner is swatting shots like it’s 2K, spacing the floor on offense, and playing the best basketball of his career. He’s no longer just a rim protector — he’s a difference maker on both ends. The Pacers just outpaced the Celtics in six games — and they’re not slowing down for anybody.
Key Matchups to Watch
- SGA vs. Haliburton – Two of the league’s smartest and most efficient guards. Who controls the tempo?
- Chet Holmgren vs. Myles Turner – A battle of shot blockers and floor spacers. Whichever big can hit threes and protect the rim could swing the series.
- Coaching Chess Match – Daigneault vs. Carlisle: the new-school versus the old guard.
X-Factors
- For OKC: Myles Turner. OKC will need to limit his impact on both ends — easier said than done. If he continues his two-way dominance, Indiana’s chances skyrocket.
- For Indiana: Obi Toppin. His energy off the bench has been a spark — can he bring it against a disciplined OKC squad?
Prediction
This Finals isn’t about superteams or legacy talk. It’s about youth, chemistry, and the future of basketball. Expect high pace, ridiculous highlights, and a war of attrition.
Prediction: Thunder in 5.
Oklahoma City’s poise and defense give them the slight edge in what could be a classic.
Let us know who you’re rocking with in the Finals — drop a comment below or tag @instafoolieo on IG and TikTok with your takes.