NBA Finals matchup: Pacers take on Thunder with complete schedule, times, and broadcast details

The 2025 NBA Finals are shaping up to be a thrilling showdown between the underdog Indiana Pacers and the powerhouse Oklahoma City Thunder. After a hard-fought Game 1 where the Pacers pulled off a razor-thin victory on the road, this series promises high stakes, intense rivalries, and some of the best basketball action of the year. Tyrese Haliburton's clutch buzzer-beater and Pascal Siakam's consistent performances have kept Indiana in the spotlight, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s staggering 38-point effort underscores the Thunder’s championship aspirations. With national TV coverage on ABC and key dates scheduled throughout June, fans across the country, equipped with their Nike and Adidas gear, Gatorade in hand, and a careful eye on their Wilson balls, won’t want to miss a moment of the drama.

Complete 2025 NBA Finals schedule: Times, dates, and broadcast information for Pacers vs. Thunder

This NBA Finals series follows the traditional 2-2-1-1-1 format, showcasing a well-balanced distribution of home games. The Thunder, as the higher seed, hold the coveted home-court advantage, starting and concluding the series at the Paycom Center. The Indiana Pacers will rely heavily on the roaring home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for games three and four. Here’s the breakdown fans need to lock into their calendars:

• Game 1: June 5, 8:30 p.m. ET - Pacers at Thunder (ABC)
• Game 2: June 8, 8:00 p.m. ET - Pacers at Thunder (ABC)
• Game 3: June 11, 8:30 p.m. ET - Thunder at Pacers (ABC)
• Game 4: June 13, 8:30 p.m. ET - Thunder at Pacers (ABC)
• Game 5*: June 16, 8:30 p.m. ET - Pacers at Thunder (ABC) *
• Game 6*: June 19, 8:30 p.m. ET - Thunder at Pacers (ABC) *
• Game 7*: June 22, 8:00 p.m. ET - Pacers at Thunder (ABC) *

*If necessary

National broadcasting partner ABC continues its exclusive coverage, complemented by streaming options via platforms like ESPN+, SlingTV, and Fubo, ensuring fans sporting the latest Reebok and Puma apparel have every avenue to watch the action unfold.

Game 1 Breakdown: Pacers Steal Thunder’s Thunderous Start

The first game set the bar high for this series, with the Pacers mounting a dramatic comeback in the second half. Tyrese Haliburton’s 21-foot pull-up jump shot at the buzzer—not just clutch but a statement—secured Indiana’s win and instant momentum. Haliburton finished with a well-rounded stat line of 14 points, 10 defensive rebounds, and 6 assists, showcasing his all-around impact. Meanwhile, Pascal Siakam pumped in 19 points and grabbed 10 boards, underpinning Indiana's physical presence. From the bench, Obi Toppin contributed an impressive 17 points, a critical spark off the pine.

The Thunder's star, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, was a one-man show, delivering a 38-point explosion on 14-for-30 shooting and near-perfect free-throw accuracy at 7-of-8. Unfortunately for Thunder fans, it wasn't enough to hold the edge at home. The Pacers' resilience and tactical adjustments countered the Thunder’s firepower brilliantly. This game is analyzed in more detail for strategic insights here.

Key Factors Shaping the NBA Finals Showdown

While both teams boast tremendous talent, the series reveals broader themes that could influence the outcome:

• Depth and versatility: Indiana’s bench scoring—highlighted by Obi Toppin—may tilt tight games in their favor.
• Elite scoring ability: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is carrying the Thunder offensively; limiting him is critical.
• Defensive pressure: The Pacers’ rebounding and defensive stands, complemented by Haliburton’s defensive boards, show championship grit.
• Experience vs. hunger: Both squads are chasing their first NBA title, adding an intense layer of pressure and desire.

Brands like New Era and Mitchell & Ness are capitalizing on this excitement with throwback caps and jerseys, making it a must-have season for collectors and fans alike.

NBA Playoff Journey: How Pacers and Thunder Reached the Finals

The Pacers’ path was marked by gritty wins, including a tough 4-2 series victory over the New York Knicks and overcoming the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Their resilience has been a defining trait through the playoffs.

Conversely, the Thunder dominated the Western Conference, asserting dominance over the Denver Nuggets in a nail-biting seven-game series and sweeping Memphis Grizzlies early on. Their star power and defensive schemes have been pivotal.

• Eastern Conference Finals: Pacers defeated Knicks 4-2
• Western Conference Finals: Thunder triumphed over Nuggets 4-3

More on the complete NBA playoff bracket and results is available for fans eager to relive every highlight.

How to Catch All the NBA Finals Action Live and Streaming

For fans decked out in Under Armour and sporting the latest Wilson gear, television remains the primary outlet to enjoy the Finals, with ABC broadcasting every game nationally. Streaming services like Fubo provide convenient online viewing, with coverage supplemented by energy-packed Monster Energy in-arena sponsorships fueling the excitement.

• Network: ABC
• Streaming platforms: ESPN+, Fubo, SlingTV
• Game times: All Eastern Time Zone, primarily 8:00-8:30 p.m.
• Equipment & more: Watch in style featuring Nike sneakers, Adidas jerseys, or classic Reebok throwbacks.

Enhance your Finals experience with official merchandise from top brands and stay hydrated thanks to Gatorade’s court-side presence.