NBA Finals Game 7: Thunder beat Pacers for NBA title behind big game from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after injury to Tyrese Haliburton

The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the NBA Finals to win their first championship since relocating from Seattle in 2008. Overcoming a one-point halftime deficit, the Thunder dominated the second half to secure the title.

Despite a fourth-quarter rally attempt by the Pacers, who overcame multiple playoff deficits earlier in the postseason, Indiana couldn't complete the comeback without injured star Tyrese Haliburton. The Thunder's victory capped a league-best 68-win season.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the regular-season MVP, powered the win with 29 points, 12 assists, 5 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal. After carrying Oklahoma City's offense with 16 first-half points against Indiana's aggressive defense, he earned Finals MVP honors for his decisive performance.

Gilgeous-Alexander expressed disbelief and pride post-game, telling ESPN: "This group worked for it... So many hours, moments, and emotions. We deserve this."

The game featured a pivotal injury to Pacers' guard Haliburton in the first quarter. He had scored 9 quick points with three 3-pointers before exiting, devastating Indiana's championship hopes.