The Indiana Pacers have advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000, setting up a showdown with the Oklahoma City Thunder on 92.9 FM ESPN. Game 1 of the NBA Finals is at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday (6/5). Full analysis all week on 92.9 FM ESPN.
The Pacers secured their spot by defeating the New York Knicks 125–108 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, propelled by Pascal Siakam's 31-point performance and Tyrese Haliburton's 21 points and 13 assists.
The 2025 Finals mark a significant moment for both franchises, each seeking their first NBA championship. The Thunder, led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, finished the regular season with a league-best 68–14 record and have been dominant in the playoffs.
Notably, both teams' current rosters were shaped by trades involving Paul George. The Pacers acquired key players like Haliburton through a series of trades following George's departure, while the Thunder obtained Gilgeous-Alexander and valuable draft picks in exchange for George.
This Finals matchup highlights the success of strategic team-building and offers a fresh narrative in NBA history.