Jalen Williams (40 points) propels Oklahoma City towards NBA title
Jun 16, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) reacts during the fourth quarter of game five of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
The Oklahoma City Thunder took a decisive step towards the NBA title by winning 120-109 against the Indiana Pacers in Game 5. Led by a stratospheric performance from Jalen Williams (40 points) and supported by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (31 points, 10 assists), Mark Daigneault’s team is now just one win away from the ultimate crown.
A gala evening for Jalen Williams who impresses the NBA
Jalen Williams’ performance will go down in the history of this NBA finals. The 24-year-old wing delivered « the perfect game to guide his team to victory, showing aggression near the rim and efficiency from distance, » according to observers present. With 40 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, Williams recorded his best playoff career game at the most crucial moment.
This exceptional performance confirms the meteoric rise of the young player, who was already averaging 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in the regular season. NBA insiders unanimously agree on his potential, stating that « Jalen Williams can have a career like Scottie Pippen, » according to ESPN. A comparison with the Chicago Bulls legend that testifies to the remarkable impact on both ends of the floor from the Thunder player.
Thunder maintains control despite Pacers’ resistance
Oklahoma City dominated most of the game, leading by up to 18 points thanks notably to valuable contributions from Aaron Wiggins and Cason Wallace, who shot a remarkable 3/4 from three-point range in the first half. Isaiah Hartenstein was also « crucial during Thunder’s successful start. »
However, the Pacers refused to give up despite their leader Tyrese Haliburton’s struggles, limited to 4 points (0/6 shooting) after a nasty fall early in the game. TJ McConnell and Pascal Siakam took over with 18 and 28 points respectively, allowing Indiana to come within 2 points (95-93) with eight minutes remaining.
It was finally in the money-time that Jalen Williams made the difference, « combining a layup and a Michael Jordan-like step-back to close the loop. » The Thunder will now head to Indianapolis with their first match point, while the Pacers must absolutely win on Thursday to survive in this thrilling NBA finals.
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