Oklahoma City Thunder Clinch Second NBA Championship Amid Tyrese Haliburton's Injury Woes
The Thunder secured their second NBA title, but Tyrese Haliburton's torn Achilles in Game 7 raises concerns for the Pacers' future.
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
- The Oklahoma City Thunder won their second NBA championship by defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the Finals.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 29 points and was named Finals MVP for his exceptional performance throughout the series.
- Tyrese Haliburton suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during the Finals, requiring surgery and leading to significant frustration for the Pacers.
- Haliburton had previously been playing through a calf strain before the injury, complicating his situation on the court.
- The injury is expected to sideline Haliburton for a significant period, potentially causing him to miss the entire 2025-26 season.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame Tyrese Haliburton's injury with a focus on its impact on the Pacers and his career. They emphasize the severity of the Achilles injury and its potential long-term consequences, reflecting concern for the player’s future while highlighting his previous performance and contributions to the team.
"The frustration is unfathomable."
USA TODAY"Haliburton began slamming the court in agony, seemingly already aware of the injury he suffered."
NBC News"The worst fears for the Indiana Pacers have come true."
USA TODAY"The Oklahoma City Thunder are champions."
CBS News"The Pacers do have a formula that works."
USA TODAY"The championship marks the Thunder’s first Finals victory since the team moved to OKC."
Deadline"Haliburton was eventually helped off the floor and into the locker room with a towel draped over his head."
USA TODAY"Haliburton was off to a hot start before the injury."
NBC News"The ensuing scene was heartbreaking for the Pacers."
Associated Press"And then he was gone."
Chicago TribuneArticles (20)
FAQ
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 to secure their second NBA championship and the first since relocating to Oklahoma City.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named the Finals MVP, scoring 29 points and 12 assists in Game 7, and delivering an exceptional performance throughout the series.
Tyrese Haliburton suffered a torn right Achilles tendon in Game 7, requiring surgery, and is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season, raising concerns about his future performance.
Haliburton's torn Achilles early in Game 7 significantly hindered the Pacers' ability to compete, as he was a key player who had also been managing a calf strain prior to the injury.
The Thunder completed a successful rebuild with a young, well-constructed roster including many undrafted and second-round picks, signaling a strong foundation for future success and potential dynasty formation.
History
- 3M
3 articles - 3M
8 articles - 3M6 articles