By Vincent Wang, Staff Writer
With the 2025 NBA Conference Finals wrapped up, the 2025 NBA Finals matchup is set as a best of 7 series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. What makes this matchup so special one might ask? This Finals will determine who wins their first ring, Pacers superstar Tyrese Haliburton or the reigning MVP on the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Students at River Hill are excited for this fresh matchup.
For the Oklahoma City Thunder, this Finals appearance represents the work the front office has done. They are favored to win this year’s Finals as they are the youngest team in the NBA. Junior Nathanael Michael believes that “OKC will be a dynasty in the next coming years.” Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the undisputed leader is “the most valuable player for the Thunder” expressed by Nathanael. “His scoring, playmaking and leadership will be key.”
On the other side, the Indiana Pacers have shocked many with their playoff run. Led by Tyrese Haliburton’s creativity and clutch performances, the Pacers are showing that they belong on the big stage. Junior David Carr shared his excitement: “No one expected the Pacers to make it this far, but Haliburton is proving he’s a superstar.” Players like Bennedict Mathurin and Myles Turner have stepped up in big moments. “Their teamwork and mentality is what got them this far,” Nathanael points out.
What makes this Finals even more thrilling is that it’s a fresh matchup and these teams developed their stars rather than chasing big-name free agents. Both teams represent the rewards of patience and smart development. At River Hill, the buzz around the series has brought students together to debate predictions and cheer for their favorite stars. Junior Ram Chillkuru summed it up best: “It’s not LeBron, Steph, or KD this time. This Finals is about the next generation, It’s their time now.”
Whether the Thunder complete their mission or the Pacers complete their underdog story, one thing is certain, this 2025 NBA Finals will be remembered as the dawn of a new era in basketball. Students like Nathanael, David and Ram continue to discuss matchups and stat lines for this Final series this year. The Finals have become more than just a sporting event, it brings people together by discussion and entertainment. David ends off his thoughts with, “no matter who comes out on top, the future of the NBA looks brighter than ever.”