The 2024–25 NBA season ends in triumph for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who claimed their second championship—and first since relocating from Seattle—by defeating the Indiana Pacers 103–91 in a decisive Game 7 at a raucous Paycom Center. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the undisputed star of the night, posting 29 points and 12 assists to earn Finals MVP honors. Backed by a defensively disciplined and youthful roster, Gilgeous-Alexander led OKC to a dominant postseason run, capping off a historic year with 68 regular season wins and an almost flawless playoff campaign.
Indiana’s dream run was derailed by a cruel blow: Tyrese Haliburton suffered a suspected Achilles injury mid-game, forcing him off the court at a critical juncture. Despite the setback, the Pacers fought valiantly to the end, powered by Pascal Siakam and a tightly knit team that earned the respect of the entire league.
Adding drama to an already electric finale, news broke of a blockbuster trade: Kevin Durant is heading to the Houston Rockets. The move, made official on June 22, sends Durant from the Phoenix Suns to Houston in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th overall pick in the 2025 Draft, and five future second-round picks. Still under contract for two more years at over $54 million per season, Durant chose Houston after being swayed by Ime Udoka’s ambitious vision. The Rockets are aiming to make an immediate return to title contention by combining Durant’s elite experience with their promising young core.