### Indiana Pacers Set to Face Oklahoma City Thunder in 2025 NBA Finals

The Indiana Pacers secured their place in the 2025 NBA Finals after a decisive victory against the New York Knicks on Saturday. Closing the series in Game 5 with a 125-108 win, the Pacers will now make their first finals appearance since 2000. Their opponent will be the Oklahoma City Thunder, with Game 1 scheduled to tip off in OKC on Thursday at 8:30 p.m. ET, televised on ABC.

Entering Gainbridge Fieldhouse dressed in all black, a nod to the Knicks' similar attire last year, the Pacers signaled their intent to finish the series. They delivered on that promise with a stellar offensive performance, shooting a remarkable 51.5% from beyond the arc (17-of-33) and capitalizing on the Knicks' errors, converting 17 turnovers into 34 points.

Throughout the postseason, the Pacers have showcased an offense that has consistently overwhelmed their opponents. This was evident once more in the third quarter of Game 5 when they surged to a 16-point lead that the Knicks could not overcome. Pascal Siakam led the scoring with 31 points, backed by Tyrese Haliburton with 21 points and 13 assists. Andrew Nembhard also had a significant impact on both ends of the court, contributing 14 points, eight assists, and six steals. The Knicks' top scorer, OG Anunoby, managed 24 points.

Despite the Pacers' impressive run, they face long odds against the heavily favored Thunder. Las Vegas oddsmakers have positioned OKC as -800 favorites to claim the championship, indicating a challenging series ahead for Indiana.

In recognition of his pivotal role in the series, Pascal Siakam was named the Eastern Conference Finals MVP, edging out Haliburton in a close vote. Siakam's standout performances in Games 2, 4, and 6 were crucial to the Pacers' victories. Acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Toronto Raptors in January 2024, Siakam has proven to be the postseason star the Pacers hoped for.

However, Indiana’s road to the finals did not come without setbacks. Injuries to Jarace Walker and Aaron Nesmith in the fourth quarter of Game 5 cast a shadow over the win. Walker exited with an apparent severe ankle injury, and Nesmith left following a collision with Karl-Anthony Towns. Nesmith's potential absence would be significant, given his breakout performances this postseason, including being the hero of Game 1. Both players now have five days to recover before the finals begin.