The Indiana Pacers’ championship hopes were dashed on Tuesday night as Tyrese Haliburton’s early exit from Game 7 due to a hamstring injury proved too much to overcome. The Oklahoma City Thunder capitalized on his absence, securing a 109-97 victory to win their second NBA championship in franchise history.
Haliburton, the Pacers’ All-Star guard and key playmaker, was visibly limited from the start of the decisive game, having tweaked his hamstring in Game 6. Despite trying to play through the discomfort in front of a sold-out home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, he signaled to the bench midway through the second quarter and did not return to the game.
“It was the hardest decision I’ve had to make,” Haliburton said after the game. “I should have been there for my team. But my body said no.”
From the moment Haliburton left the court, the Pacers’ offense struggled. Their usual crisp ball movement stalled, and their fast-paced tempo slowed significantly. The Thunder, known for their young, athletic, and relentless play, seized the opportunity. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was later named Finals MVP, led the charge with 31 points, while Chet Holmgren dominated the paint, recording 5 blocks and 12 rebounds.
Despite strong efforts from Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner, Indiana was outscored 28-14 in the third quarter. During this crucial stretch, the Pacers committed six turnovers and went nearly five minutes without making a field goal. The Thunder’s aggressive defensive switches and effective fast breaks proved to be decisive factors in the outcome.
“Losing Ty was a huge blow,” Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle admitted. “He’s the heartbeat of this team. Without him, it just wasn’t the same.”
The Pacers had surprised many by reaching their first NBA Finals since 2000, having overcome strong teams like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks. Haliburton’s leadership and playmaking were central to their playoff run, as he averaged 21 points and 11 assists per game. However, in the most important game, circumstances took a different turn.
Although the championship eluded them, Indiana can look back at the 2025 season with pride. This deep playoff run, characterized by resilience, a talented young roster, and the reawakening of a proud basketball city, has laid a strong foundation for future success.
The Thunder, on the other hand, celebrated their first championship since 1979 (when the franchise was known as the Seattle SuperSonics). With a core of young talent, they appear poised to contend for titles for years to come.
“This is only year one of what we’re building,” Haliburton said, his eyes still showing disappointment, but his voice steady. “We’ll be back. Stronger. Wiser. And ready.”
