Thunder Level NBA Finals with Commanding Game 2 Victory Over Pacers
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City Thunder rebounded emphatically in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals, defeating the Indiana Pacers 123–107 on Sunday night to even the series at 1–1. After a narrow one-point loss in Game 1, the Thunder showcased their resilience with a dominant performance at the Paycom Center.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge for Oklahoma City, scoring 34 points on 11-of-13 shooting, and adding eight assists, five rebounds, and four steals. His efficient play set the tone early, helping the Thunder establish a significant lead that they maintained throughout the game. Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance also marked a personal milestone, as he surpassed 3,000 combined points for the season, becoming the top scorer of the 2025 playoffs.
The Thunder’s bench provided substantial support, with Alex Caruso contributing 20 points and Aaron Wiggins adding 18. Jalen Williams and rookie Chet Holmgren also made significant impacts, scoring 19 and 15 points respectively. Holmgren, in particular, anchored the interior defense and grabbed seven rebounds, helping to limit Indiana’s second-chance opportunities.
Oklahoma City’s defense was notably more aggressive in Game 2, disrupting Indiana’s offensive rhythm. The Pacers, who had no player score more than 20 points in either of the first two games, struggled to find consistent scoring. Tyrese Haliburton, who hit the game-winner in Game 1, was held to 17 points, while Myles Turner and Pascal Siakam added 16 and 15 points respectively. The Thunder’s defensive adjustments effectively neutralized Indiana’s perimeter threats and limited their transition opportunities.
A pivotal moment came in the second quarter when the Thunder executed a 19–2 run, transforming a six-point game into a commanding 23-point lead. Although the Pacers attempted to rally, cutting the deficit to 13 points in the third quarter, Oklahoma City maintained control and never allowed Indiana to mount a serious comeback.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised his team’s focus and execution, stating, “The guys did a great job of just focusing on what we needed to do to stack to a win tonight. That’s how we got it.”
The series now shifts to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Wednesday, marking the city’s first NBA Finals game in 25 years. Both teams will look to adjust their strategies as they vie for the championship.
