2025 NBA Finals Tip-Off: Thunder Face Pacers in Historic Battle for First Championship

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The 2025 NBA Finals commence today, June 5, featuring a best-of-seven series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. Both teams are vying for their first NBA championship, marking a significant moment in league history.

The Thunder, led by league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, finished the regular season with a league-best 68–14 record, securing home-court advantage. Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5 rebounds per game during the regular season. The Pacers, under coach Rick Carlisle, overcame a challenging start to finish 50–32, earning the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. They advanced to the Finals by defeating the New York Knicks in six games.

This Finals marks the first time since 2006 that two cities are vying for their first NBA championship. Both teams have undergone significant transformations since trading former star Paul George, with the Thunder acquiring Gilgeous-Alexander and the Pacers obtaining Tyrese Haliburton through subsequent trades.

The series will be broadcast exclusively on ABC in the United States, with Mike Breen, Doris Burke, and Richard Jefferson providing commentary.

The emergence of young stars like Gilgeous-Alexander and Haliburton highlights a generational shift in the NBA, potentially influencing the league's marketing strategies and fan engagement.

The Finals feature two small-market teams, which may impact viewership and advertising revenue.