The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a resounding statement in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals, decisively defeating the Indiana Pacers 123-107 on Sunday night to level the best-of-seven series at one game apiece. After an agonizing last-second loss in Game 1 on their home court at Paycom Center, the Thunder showcased their characteristic resilience, led by a stellar performance from MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Gilgeous-Alexander, a Hamilton, Ontario native, was the driving force for Oklahoma City, scoring a game-high 34 points on 11-of-21 shooting. He complemented his scoring with eight assists, five rebounds, four steals, and one block in an all-encompassing display. With this performance, Gilgeous-Alexander reached 3,000 points for the combined season and playoffs and surpassed New York's Jalen Brunson as the leading scorer in the current postseason. Notably, his 72 points across the first two games of the NBA Finals set a new record, eclipsing Allen Iverson's previous mark of 71 points in his 2001 Finals debut.

The Thunder's victory was significantly bolstered by potent contributions from their bench. Alex Caruso was particularly impactful, scoring 20 points, including four three-pointers. Aaron Wiggins also had a standout game, adding 18 points on efficient 6-of-11 shooting, draining five of his eight three-point attempts, and grabbing four rebounds. Their combined 38 points marked a significant offensive boost, with reports noting it as the third time two bench players each scored 18 or more points in a single NBA Finals game since the 1970-71 season. Gilgeous-Alexander praised Wiggins for his readiness and consistent impact, regardless of fluctuating minutes, stating, "For him to rise to the occasion or just be who he's been in the biggest moment of his basketball career is pretty gutsy."

Beyond the bench stars, other Thunder players also made key contributions. Starting forward Jalen Williams scored 19 points while adding five rebounds and five assists. Center Chet Holmgren bounced back from a subdued Game 1, finishing with 15 points and six rebounds.

Oklahoma City asserted its dominance early, particularly with a blistering 19-2 run in the second quarter that transformed a six-point game into a commanding 23-point lead. The Thunder maintained control thereafter, with their largest lead reaching 23 points. The energetic home crowd, with noise levels reportedly topping 100 decibels, fueled the team's aggressive play. So dominant was the Thunder's performance that 17 of their players saw court time, while the Pacers also utilized 15 players as the game became a blowout.

Conversely, the Indiana Pacers struggled to find their rhythm. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, the hero of Game 1 with a last-second game-winner, was limited to 17 points, six assists, and committed five turnovers. He and his teammates found it difficult against Oklahoma City's improved and disruptive defense. The Pacers as a team shot poorly from beyond the arc, converting only 14 of their 40 attempts (35%). For the second consecutive game in the Finals, Indiana did not have a single player score 20 points, a worrying trend for their offensive output. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle lamented a "bad first half" and acknowledged, "we just played poorly." Forward Pascal Siakam added that the Thunder "did a good job being disruptive... They were super aggressive." Myles Turner contributed 16 points and Siakam had 15 for the Pacers.

The Thunder's ability to bounce back from a loss has been a hallmark of their season. Including the NBA Cup title game, they are now 18-2 this season following a defeat, with 12 of those wins coming by double digits. In the playoffs, they are 6-0 after a loss. Coach Mark Daigneault highlighted the team's focus: "The guys did a great job of just focusing on what we needed to do to stack to a win tonight." Gilgeous-Alexander echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to learn and improve continuously: "Basketball is a game of ups and downs... it’s about the team that can stay level-headed and get better throughout the experiences that are going to come out on top."

Aaron Wiggins, reflecting on his impactful performance, spoke about his journey and mindset: "I think about it all the time, being from Greenboro, my journey early on, it taught me to be grateful... to take advantage of the opportunities I get... It kind of helped me mentally to not be afraid, regardless of what moment may be in front of me."

With the series now tied 1-1, the NBA Finals shift to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Wednesday. This will be the first Finals game hosted in Indianapolis in 25 years. The Thunder will look to carry their momentum on the road, while the Pacers will aim to regroup and defend their home court.