Oklahoma City Thunder Take 3-2 NBA Finals Lead Over Indiana Pacers

The Oklahoma City Thunder are one win away from claiming their first NBA championship since 1979 after a 120-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the 2024-25 NBA Finals. Jalen Williams led the team with a career playoff-high 40 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 31 points and 10 assists, playing both a scoring and traditional point guard role effectively. The Thunder built an early lead and withstood a strong comeback effort from Indiana, which was hampered by star Tyrese Haliburton's injury-limited performance. Williams' fearless and forceful approach, praised by teammates and coach Mark Daigneault, was crucial in holding off the Pacers down the stretch, alongside clutch free throws and key plays by Gilgeous-Alexander. Despite Indiana's resilience, including a late surge led by Pascal Siakam and TJ McConnell, Oklahoma City's defense and execution in the final minutes sealed their pivotal win. The Thunder now hold a 3-2 series lead and have the opportunity to clinch the title in Game 6 on Indiana's home court.