NBA Finals Game 7: Thunder vs. Pacers — Keys to Victory in a Winner-Take-All Showdown
The long grind of the 2024-25 NBA season — from the hopeful beginnings of October to the intense pressure of the playoffs — all comes down to this. One final game.
Game 7 of the NBA Finals.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers.
Sunday, June 22, 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
Forty-eight minutes (or more) will determine the 2024-25 NBA champion. Two evenly matched, well-coached, and completely spent teams meet in a do-or-die clash. It’s the 20th Game 7 in NBA Finals history — and one that will crown a first-time champion.
“One game for everything you ever dreamed of,” said Thunder superstar and league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “If you win it, you get everything. If you lose it, you get nothing. It’s that simple.”
Simple to say. Much harder to do.
Here’s how each team can walk away with the trophy:
How the Thunder Can Win Game 7
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Must Play Like the MVP
Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact is undeniable — but he must avoid mistakes. In Game 6, he had more turnovers than made field goals, and the Thunder lost. For Oklahoma City to thrive, Shai needs a stat line in the range of 30 points, 5 assists, 2 steals, 10 free throw attempts, and fewer than 3 turnovers. His mid-range shooting, ability to get to the rim, and keeping teammates involved are critical.
2. Take Care of the Ball
Turnovers have been costly. The Thunder gave up 19 in Game 3 and 21 in Game 6 — both losses. Limiting careless possessions will be key. It’s hard to win when so many trips end without even a shot attempt.
3. Secondary Scoring from Jalen Williams & Chet Holmgren
Williams doesn’t need to repeat his 40-point performance from Game 5, but consistent aggression and 20+ efficient points could swing the outcome. Holmgren must be more involved offensively — he scored just 6 and 4 points in Games 1 and 6, respectively. In wins, he’s averaged 12.7 points and 10.7 rebounds — solid contributions that the Thunder must replicate.
4. Bench Production
Oklahoma City’s depth has been a strength. The trio of Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso, and Aaron Wiggins must knock down perimeter shots. Caruso has been quiet lately (just 2 points over the last two games), and the bench was just 1-for-6 from three in Game 6. Better shooting, like their 14-for-26 display in Game 2, could be the difference.
5. Lean on Home-Court Advantage
The Thunder are 10-2 at home this postseason and went 35-6 at Paycom Center in the regular season. Although they’ve dropped two home games in the playoffs, the energy in Oklahoma City is elite — and can push the team over the finish line in a high-pressure environment.
How the Pacers Can Win Game 7
1. Tyrese Haliburton’s Impact Despite Injury
The All-Star guard is battling a strained calf, but he’s fighting through it. In Game 6, Haliburton logged just 23 minutes but delivered 14 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals. Even limited, he’s effective — and Indiana needs every bit of his leadership and shot creation.
2. Disruptive Defense
The Pacers’ defense has turned heads this postseason. Applying full-court pressure and disrupting rhythm has worked. In Game 6, they held the Thunder to 91 points — their lowest of the playoffs. If Indiana can keep SGA in check and force turnovers, they’ll be in great position.
3. Win the 3-Point Battle
Indiana is the best 3-point shooting team in the playoffs (.390) and has outscored OKC 126-87 from deep in their three Finals wins. They need around 15 threes from the likes of Haliburton, Nesmith, Nembhard, Turner, Toppin, and Siakam. The long ball remains their biggest offensive weapon.
4. Bench Energy
The Pacers’ second unit has been crucial. T.J. McConnell brings relentless intensity. Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin provide scoring and hustle. When this trio is rolling, Indiana’s chances skyrocket.
5. Pascal Siakam’s Championship DNA
Siakam is Indiana’s only player with Finals experience — and he’s been outstanding. Averaging 19.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and solid defense, he’s a dark horse for Finals MVP. His calm presence and versatile skill set are invaluable in a pressure-packed Game 7.
6. Rick Carlisle’s Coaching Wizardry
Carlisle has consistently out-schemed opposing coaches this postseason. He’s maximized the Pacers’ potential, crafting game plans that neutralize elite offenses. His adjustments — both between and during games — have been masterful. With one more gem from the bench, he could secure his second championship.
