But as far as the NBA is concerned, there is nothing left to ask for, basketball-wise, from both teams that have been playing very well this season.
In a media availability call with international media earlier this week, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum spoke highly about both teams, and how their hunger for an NBA title will bring the highest level of basketball in the finals.
“It’s the first time back in the Finals in 25 years for the Indiana Pacers. The first time back in the finals for OKC in 13 years. Like you said, the thirst of those markets [is apparent],” Tatum said.
The Thunder have never won an NBA championship in OKC, only previously winning as the Seattle Supersonics. Meanwhile, the Pacers haven’t won in the NBA — with three of their titles having been won during the time of the ABA.
Being in the NBA for decades, Tatum said that there was something special about the fanbase of both teams, and how they treat basketball. After a long-winding journey to the finals, Tatum is excited to see how their cities buzz with the action.
“My very first Finals ever working for the NBA was in 2000. I started in the summer of 1999. My first Finals was in 2000 [in Indiana]. I’ll never forget walking into that building and the passion [there]… So, to see those fans get there to the Finals, the passion that they have, the desire to win a championship is remarkable,” he said.
“And then [you have] OKC, they’ve never won a championship in Oklahoma City, and that’s a great place to watch a basketball game, too. I remember going to the Finals there and going to playoff games there, it sort of has a college atmosphere where the fans don’t sit until OKC scores its first basket. Everyone wears this t-shirt, everyone stands up.”
Having said that, Tatum believes that this is the best outcome for the NBA, where pure unbridled love for basketball will be on display for the two teams.
With the stakes at their highest and all cards on the table, Tatum and the NBA look forward to a finals series as competitive as ever.
“So, you have two passionate fanbases, you have two young teams that are rising with great stars, you have the team with the best record in the league in Oklahoma City, and you have a team in Indiana that’s known for passing the ball and so many incredible assists,” said Tatum.
“I think the fans are going to be treated to an incredible basketball series and I’m looking forward to it.” he added.
Game One of the 2025 NBA Finals tips off on Friday, Manila time, with the OKC Thunder having home court advantage against the Indiana Pacers.
