OKLAHOMA CITY – After squandering a fourth-quarter lead in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced a barrage of criticism since Thursday night. They were criticized for overcomplicating their strategy with a starting lineup change, for abandoning their two-big lineup approach that cost them not only the game but also home-court advantage, and for the numerous tactical adjustments needed to counter the surging, “team-of-destiny” Indiana Pacers. Everything was under scrutiny.
So, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault retreated to the film room, analyzed the footage, and came up with a straightforward adjustment any coach could devise: “Hey, everyone, play better.”
“We improved slightly in many areas—execution, pace, organization, decision-making near the basket, aggressiveness in attacking the rim, and ball control,” Daigneault said on Sunday, after the Thunder secured a commanding 123-107 victory, leveling the 2025 NBA Finals series at 1-1. “Everyone performed better individually and collectively.”
A brilliant move, Coach.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Thunder in Game 2
Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable in Game 2 on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Oklahoma City. He scored 34 points, setting a new record with a total of 72 points across the first two games of the NBA Finals, surpassing Allen Iverson’s 71 points in 2001. Not only did Shai score efficiently with just 21 field-goal attempts, but he also dished out eight assists to six different teammates, contributing an additional 22 points for the Thunder through his passing.
The Thunder did what they’ve done all season after losses: they struck back hard. They now hold a 17-2 record following defeats, including a perfect 5-0 in the playoffs, with those five wins coming by an average margin of 19.6 points—consistent with their 20.5-point average margin of victory after regular-season losses.
Thunder’s Strong Comeback
After combining for just 23 points on 28 shots in Game 1, the duo of Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren exploded for 34 points on 25 shots in Game 2. Holmgren showcased excellent rim protection and held his own when switched onto the perimeter, while Williams earned praise from Daigneault for his aggressive approach, drawing seven fouls and recording five assists.
“I think tonight was a better reflection of how we play,” said reserve guard Alex Caruso, who scored 20 points on 6-of-11 shooting in 27 energetic minutes off the bench.
The Thunder significantly improved their offensive efficiency, posting 128.1 points per 100 possessions against an overwhelmed Pacers defense. They boosted their 2-point shooting from 41.2% (28/68) in Game 1 to 56.5% (26/46) in Game 2, while increasing their assists from a season-low 13 to 25, with only 13 turnovers. The Thunder also earned more free-throw opportunities (29/33 compared to 20/24) and improved their 3-point shooting (14/36 compared to 11/30).
Stout Defense
Defensively, the Thunder smothered Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, limiting him to just 5 points on 7 shots with 4 assists and 3 turnovers through three quarters. They also matched the physicality of Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner, Andrew Nembhard, and Aaron Nesmith, disrupting the Pacers’ offensive system. As a result, Indiana managed only 104.4 points per 100 possessions—a league-worst offensive performance—before head coach Rick Carlisle pulled his starters with four minutes left in the fourth quarter.
Relentless Energy
The Thunder maintained their energy throughout the game, never faltering despite the Pacers’ attempts to mount comebacks. When Indiana narrowed the gap to 13 points, the Thunder stood firm. Aaron Wiggins, who played just 9 minutes in Game 1, erupted for 18 points, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, contributing to a 19-2 run that turned a close game into a 23-point rout.
“We found a rhythm on both ends of the court,” Wiggins said. “We got stops, transitioned quickly, hit a few shots, and felt the energy take over.”
Looking Ahead
Coach Daigneault noted that the Thunder use the early games of a series to “learn their options and assess what needs improvement.” After Game 2, they gained valuable insights to apply moving forward. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized: “You can’t just throw the first punch. You have to keep throwing punches all night. And tonight, we did that to secure the win.”
With this victory, the Thunder regained their confidence and sent a strong message to the Pacers ahead of Game 3 in Indiana. Meanwhile, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle admitted his team needs significant improvement: “We can’t just be reactive; we have to be more proactive to succeed.”