Thunder Level NBA Finals with Game 2 Win Over Pacers

The Oklahoma City Thunder evened the 2025 NBA Finals series at 1-1 with a commanding 123-107 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with an MVP-caliber performance, scoring 34 points with eight assists and four steals, bringing his total to 72 points in the first two Finals games—setting a new record for most points by a player in their first two NBA Finals games. Chet Holmgren bounced back from a quiet Game 1 to contribute 15 points, six rebounds, and a block, joining an elite group of players with at least 25 three-pointers and 30 blocks in a single playoff run, while also becoming the youngest to reach these marks. Bench players Aaron Wiggins and Alex Caruso provided significant support, with Caruso adding 20 points and Wiggins playing a key role in a decisive 17-2 run in the second quarter. The Thunder's aggressive defense limited Indiana's offense, diminishing the impact of Pacers' guard Tyrese Haliburton, who scored 17 points but was less effective than in Game 1. Overall, the Thunder's balanced offensive attack and improved defense reinvigorated their title hopes as the series shifts to Indianapolis.