The Oklahoma City Thunder edged closer to an NBA championship after a thrilling 120-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 on Monday night. Jalen Williams emerged as the standout performer, dropping a game-high 40 points, helping his team secure a pivotal win and a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Pacers Rally Falls Short in Intense Fourth Quarter
Held in Oklahoma City, the matchup was a tale of momentum swings. The Thunder built a commanding 18-point lead in the first half, but the Pacers mounted a fierce comeback, narrowing the deficit to just two points in the fourth quarter.
Despite the pressure, Oklahoma City responded with precision. Led by Williams and NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder countered Indiana’s surge with a late offensive push, reclaiming control of the game in the final minutes.
Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander Power Thunder Offense
Jalen Williams delivered one of the most electrifying performances of the postseason, finishing the night with 40 points, six rebounds, and four assists. His ability to consistently find the basket and make key plays down the stretch proved essential in halting Indiana’s momentum.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, recently crowned the league’s Most Valuable Player, demonstrated why he’s earned the title.
He tallied 31 points, 10 assists, four blocks, and two steals, showcasing his all-around brilliance and clutch playmaking when it mattered most.
Indiana’s Siakam Shines but Haliburton Injury Raises Alarms
On the Pacers’ side, Pascal Siakam led the charge with 28 points, delivering a strong offensive effort to keep Indiana in contention. However, the team’s morale took a hit as concern grew over the condition of Tyrese Haliburton.
Haliburton, who has been dealing with an ongoing right calf injury since Game 2, was forced to exit the game in the first quarter. Though he later returned, his limited mobility raised serious questions about his availability and effectiveness heading into the next game.
Thunder Look to Clinch Championship in Game 6
With this win, the Thunder now stand just one victory away from claiming the NBA title. The next opportunity comes in Game 6, set to take place in Indianapolis on Thursday.
A win there would seal Oklahoma City’s first NBA championship since relocating from Seattle, marking a historic milestone for the franchise.
Game 5 of the NBA Finals delivered all the intensity and drama expected of a championship showdown. Jalen Williams’ breakout performance and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership proved too much for a resilient Pacers squad battling injuries and inconsistency.
As the series shifts back to Indiana, the Thunder have momentum and history within reach, while the Pacers must regroup and hope for a healthy roster if they want to force a Game 7.