Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder proved to be a defining moment in the championship series. The Oklahoma City Thunder powered past the Indiana Pacers with a dominant 120-109 win, taking a critical 3-2 series lead. Now just one victory away from their first-ever NBA title since relocating from Seattle, the Thunder have the momentum, while the Pacers face elimination on their home court in Game 6.
Let’s explore the biggest storylines from this high-stakes clash.
Jalen Williams Steals the Spotlight
Jalen Williams was nothing short of spectacular in Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder. The third-year forward delivered a career-defining performance, erupting for 40 points, his personal best in the playoffs.
• Shot 14-of-25 from the field
• Added 6 rebounds and 4 assists
• Showed poise under pressure as the Pacers closed the gap in the fourth quarter
When Indiana cut the lead to just two points, it was Williams who answered with clutch baskets, silencing the comeback. His performance earned praise from teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who called it a “gutsy” showing worthy of the biggest stage.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Mr. Consistent
While Williams wowed the crowd, MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his postseason brilliance:
• 31 points, 10 assists
• A near-perfect 13-of-14 from the free-throw line
• Notched his 15th 30-point game of the 2025 playoffs
In doing so, Shai joined the ranks of legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Hakeem Olajuwon. His consistent excellence has been the foundation of Thunder’s run in the 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder showdown.
Thunder’s Defense Crushes the Pacers
One of the defining traits of this Thunder team has been their elite defense — and they brought it at full force in Game 5.
• Forced 23 turnovers from Indiana
• Scored 32 points off those turnovers
• Shut down the Pacers during key moments, especially in the 4th quarter
At one point, Thunder’s defense recorded 4 straight steals, turning a tight game into a double-digit lead. Their quick transitions and defensive IQ were on full display, highlighting why they’re a force in the 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder battle.
Tyrese Haliburton Injury: A Major Blow for Pacers
The Pacers’ biggest problem wasn’t just Thunder’s pressure — it was the condition of their star point guard Tyrese Haliburton.
• Re-aggravated his calf injury in the first quarter
• Scored only 4 points, all from free throws
• Struggled to drive, move freely, or dictate the offense
With Haliburton limited, Indiana’s fast-paced, high-scoring style collapsed. His availability and fitness for Game 6 could define whether the Pacers extend the NBA Finals vs Thunder series.
Turnovers Continue to Haunt Indiana
Besides Haliburton’s injury, Indiana’s biggest issue in Game 5 was self-inflicted:
• 23 turnovers — many unforced
• Resulted in easy transition buckets for Thunder
• Highlighted poor communication and lack of control under pressure
If the Pacers want any chance of staying alive in the 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder, they’ll need to play with more discipline in Game 6.
OKC’s Bench Steps Up
While the stars led the charge, Oklahoma City’s role players stepped up big time:
- Aaron Wiggins – 14 points, strong offensive spark
- Cason Wallace – 11 points and 4 steals, energetic defense
These performances gave OKC a boost when needed and showcased their depth and team mentality, a crucial weapon in the NBA Finals vs Thunder title race.
What’s Next in the 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder
Game 6 in Indiana: A Must-Win for the Pacers
• Can Tyrese Haliburton recover in time?
• Can the Pacers protect the ball under Thunder’s pressure?
• Will Indiana’s home crowd fuel one more push?
For Oklahoma City Thunder:
• One win away from making franchise history
• Must keep up the defensive intensity
• Trust their young stars to finish strong
Did You Know? Teams that win Game 5 in a 2-2 NBA Finals series go on to win the championship over 70% of the time.
✅ Final Word
The 2025 NBA Finals vs Thunder has delivered everything a basketball fan could want — stars rising, momentum shifting, and history waiting to be written. With Game 6 set in Indiana, it’s now or never for the Pacers. For the Thunder, the door to destiny is wide open.
Will Oklahoma City claim their first NBA title? Or can Indiana force a Game 7 thriller?
The stage is set.