Oklahoma City Thunder One Win from First NBA Title

The Oklahoma City Thunder are one win away from their first NBA championship in 46 years after defeating the Indiana Pacers 120-109 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, taking a 3-2 series lead. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with a career playoff-high 40 points, while MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 31 points and 10 assists, helping the team pull away in the fourth quarter despite an Indiana comeback attempt. The Pacers, led by Pascal Siakam's 28 points and TJ McConnell's 18, struggled without an effective offensive presence from Tyrese Haliburton due to a leg injury. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault noted room for growth despite the win, and Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized focusing on one step at a time toward the championship. Historically, teams winning Game 5 in a tied NBA Finals series have a strong chance of winning the title, with a 74% success rate, placing the Thunder in a favorable position. Game 6 will be held in Indianapolis, where the Pacers have been strong, but the Thunder’s 7-3 road record this postseason adds to their advantage.