The Indiana Pacers have defeated the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, securing their place in the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Pacers won the game 125-108, clinching the series 4-2 and sending their fans into a frenzy. This marks only the second time in franchise history that the Pacers have reached the NBA Finals, their first appearance since 2000.

Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 31 points, while Tyrese Haliburton contributed 21 points and 13 assists. Thomas Bryant also had a strong performance off the bench. Despite the efforts of the Knicks' star duo, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, they were unable to overcome the Pacers' dominant performance.

The Oklahoma City Thunder, representing the Western Conference, earned their spot in the Finals by defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals. This is the Thunder's first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, when they lost to the Miami Heat.

The upcoming series promises an exciting clash between two young and talented teams. The Thunder, with their dynamic offense and stifling defense, present a formidable challenge. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Western Conference Finals MVP, leads a team known for its depth and persistence on both sides of the court. The Pacers, fueled by the stellar play of Tyrese Haliburton and the veteran experience of Pascal Siakam, will look to capitalize on their offensive firepower and team chemistry.

The first game of the 2025 NBA Finals is scheduled for Thursday, June 5, at 8:30 p.m. ET, hosted by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Games 2, 5, and 7 (if necessary) will also be held in Oklahoma City, while Games 3, 4, and 6 (if necessary) will be in Indiana.

This year's Finals is particularly notable as it features two teams that did not pay the luxury tax this season, a historic first. The Pacers ranked 18th in the NBA in payroll, while the Thunder ranked 25th. This highlights the success of these small-market teams in building competitive rosters through player development and strategic acquisitions, rather than relying on high spending.

The Pacers are seeking their first NBA championship, with their previous titles coming in the ABA in 1969 and 1975. The Thunder, formerly the Seattle SuperSonics, last won a championship in 1979. Both teams have overcome tough competition throughout the playoffs to reach this stage, making for a highly anticipated and compelling NBA Finals matchup.