In a thrilling Game 5 showdown, Jalen Williams exploded for a career-high 40 points, with MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander adding 31 as the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers 120-109 to take a pivotal 3-2 series lead in the NBA Finals. Despite a valiant effort from Pascal Siakam and TJ McConnell, the Pacers came up short in their comeback bid after trailing by as many as 18 points. With history on their side, the Thunder are now just one victory away from capturing the championship, as teams with a 3-2 lead in the finals have gone on to win the series 82% of the time.
Williams acknowledged the tough challenge posed by the Pacers, emphasizing the resilience and strategic growth his team has displayed throughout the intense finals series. With the Thunder on the cusp of greatness, a victory in Game 6 would secure their place in NBA history as champions. Despite facing adversity and a spirited comeback attempt from Indiana, Oklahoma City's dynamic duo of Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander showcased their scoring prowess and determination, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to an electrifying Finals matchup.