Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named the 2025 NBA Finals MVP after guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 103–91 triumph over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 on Sunday night at the Paycom Center. The Thunder’s star displayed consistent excellence throughout the series, helping his team capture a long-awaited championship.
Dominant Series Showing from MVP and Team Support
The regular season MVP averaged 30.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game during the Finals, surpassing 30 points in five of the seven contests. Highlights included a 38-point performance in Game 1 and 29 points in the decisive Game 7.
In the final game, Gilgeous-Alexander added five rebounds, 12 assists, one steal, and two blocks while making 8 of 27 shots and converting 11 of 12 free throws. His leadership pushed the Thunder past tough opponents throughout the postseason, including victories over former champions Denver Nuggets, Memphis Grizzlies, and a resilient Minnesota Timberwolves squad.
Rising Star Jalen Williams Shines Alongside Gilgeous-Alexander
The third-year player Jalen Williams also delivered remarkable performances, highlighted by scoring 40 points in Game 5. Despite Williams’s impressive efforts, the Finals MVP recognition primarily belonged to Gilgeous-Alexander, who underscored the duo’s unique chemistry and impact.
The Thunder star expressed that the honor was a shared achievement with his teammate, reflecting their combined prowess as one of the league’s most formidable partnerships.
Fan Celebration and Team’s Historical Achievement
As the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP trophy was presented to Gilgeous-Alexander, social media buzzed with excitement from fans celebrating the milestone. The young Thunder team’s playoff surge marked a significant turnaround since the franchise’s relocation from Seattle in 2008–09.
Previously, the franchise won its only NBA championship in 1979 as the Seattle SuperSonics. Dennis “Airplane” Johnson, a Hall of Famer and five-time All-Star, earned Finals MVP honors that year during a campaign that remains a proud moment for the organization.
Humility and Gratitude from the New MVP
Despite receiving individual accolades, the 26-year-old Gilgeous-Alexander remained humble, crediting teammates and fans for their support. After the game, he said,
“A lot of hardworking a lot of hours in the gym this isn’t just a win for me this is a win for my family, this is a win for my friends, this is a win everybody that was in my corner growing up, this is a win for my fans, the best fans in the world. I love you guys,”
—SGA
This sentiment reflected his acknowledgment of the collective effort that fueled the Thunder’s success.
What Lies Ahead for Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder
This championship and MVP award mark a new chapter for the Oklahoma City Thunder, signaling their arrival as contenders in the NBA. With Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams leading the way, the team is positioned to build on this historic victory. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how the Thunder maintain their momentum in future seasons.