Thunder Clinch NBA Title, Gilgeous-Alexander Named MVP

OKLAHOMA CITY: In a thrilling Game 7 showdown held at Paycom Center on Sunday, the Oklahoma City Thunder triumphed over the Indiana Pacers with a final score of 103-91. This victory marks the franchise’s first NBA title since its relocation from Seattle in 2008.

League MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a stellar performance, amassing 29 points, 12 assists, and five rebounds. Jalen Williams contributed an additional 20 points, bolstering the Thunder’s historic win.

Gilgeous-Alexander was also honored with the Finals MVP award. This achievement places him in an elite category, becoming the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in 2002 to secure the scoring title, regular season MVP, and Finals MVP in the same year.

The Pacers faced a significant setback early in the game when star point guard Tyrese Haliburton sustained an Achilles injury in the first quarter. The Oklahoma City defense proved too strong in the second half, effectively stifling the Pacers’ hopes of a championship.

The Thunder’s victory total of 84 games throughout the regular season and playoffs ties the 1996-97 Chicago Bulls’ record for the third-most wins in a single season. Only the Golden State Warriors (88 in 2016-17) and the Bulls (87 in 2015-16) have recorded more wins.

Despite concluding the first half with a narrow 48-47 advantage, the Pacers were unable to maintain their lead. The Thunder, fueled by Gilgeous-Alexander’s brilliance, dominated the third quarter with a 34-20 score, establishing a 13-point lead heading into the final quarter.

While the Pacers have been known for their late-game comebacks during the postseason, Haliburton’s absence hindered their ability to close the gap. The Thunder began the fourth quarter with a decisive 9-0 run.

Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized the significance of the win, stating that the team’s hard work and dedication led them to this defining moment. He stated that this victory has been earned through dedication and perseverance.

Post-Game Comments

“It doesn’t feel real. So many hours, so many moments, so many emotions, so many nights of disbelief, so many nights of belief,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.

“This group works hard. This group put in the hours and we deserve this,” he added.