Overview
- The 2025 NBA Finals begin June 5 in Oklahoma City as the Thunder host the Pacers in a matchup of two small-market franchises.
- Both teams are the first finalists since the salary cap’s introduction to remain below the spending limit, preserving financial flexibility for future seasons.
- Oklahoma City’s roster centers on MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, acquired in the 2019 Paul George trade and supported by successive high-value draft selections.
- Indiana’s core features Tyrese Haliburton, obtained through a Paul George–Domantas Sabonis trade sequence, and Pascal Siakam, who joined via last year’s free agency swap.
- Thunder general manager Sam Presti is credited as the architect of both finals contenders, having assembled competitive teams through targeted trades and draft maneuvering.