NBA Finals Game 5: Thunder and Pacers Battle for Series Lead

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The 2025 NBA Finals shifts into a critical Game 5 on Monday night, with the series tied 2-2 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers.

Both teams have shown remarkable resilience, alternating wins during the series thus far. The Thunder pulled off a stunning comeback in Game 4, overcoming a double-digit deficit with the help of their star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 15 points in the final five minutes to finish with 35 overall.

Game 5 is set for 8:30 p.m. ET at Paycom Center, and it could prove pivotal; historically, the winner of Game 5 in a tied Finals has gone on to win the championship 23 out of 31 times.

“It’s a great opportunity to seize control of the series,” said Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. “Both teams have fought hard to get here, and now it’s about finishing strong.”

On the other hand, the Pacers look to rebound after their Game 4 loss. Led by All-Stars Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana boasts impressive stats this postseason but has struggled to maintain offensive rhythm against the Thunder’s tough defense.

“We need to come out stronger and respond better,” said Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. “This series is a challenge, but we thrive under pressure.”

The game features momentum swings that could impact strategies on both ends. The Thunder have been dominant at home, posting a league-best 44-8 record, while the Pacers strive for their eighth road win this postseason, a record for their franchise.

Fans will be eagerly watching to see if Gilgeous-Alexander can continue his scoring spree. He’s averaging 32.8 points per game in the Finals, slightly above his regular-season average of 32.7.

With Game 6 set for Thursday in Indianapolis, both teams know the significance of this matchup. As they prepare for crucial minutes, the anticipation builds for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this tightly contested Finals.