Oklahoma City Thunder Shatter Single Season Scoring Record as NBA Finals Heat Up

Thunder Make History with Unmatched Offensive Power

The Oklahoma City Thunder have etched their name in the history books by breaking the NBA’s all-time single-season scoring record — a monumental achievement that includes both regular season and postseason performances. Surpassing the previous record of 12,161 total points set by Golden State during the 2018–2019 season, the Thunder’s explosive offense this year has redefined high-paced basketball.

From deep three-pointers to fast-break finishes, Oklahoma City’s relentless scoring has been the backbone of their 2024–25 campaign. As they battle in the NBA Finals, their record-breaking performance is more than a stat — it’s a statement.

Tyrese Haliburton Eyes Legacy as He Leads Pacers with Precision

While the Thunder dominate headlines with their scoring milestone, the spotlight is also shining brightly on Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers' star guard, who is crafting a narrative of his own. Known for his court vision, tempo control, and unselfish style of play, Haliburton has emerged as a serious contender for the NBA Finals MVP.

In a season where critics questioned his place among elite point guards, Haliburton has responded with poise and purpose. His current Finals averages — 17.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game — reflect his impact beyond just scoring. His Game 3 performance stood out as a complete showing, helping the Pacers bounce back from earlier setbacks.

Remarkably, Haliburton has yet to attempt a free throw in the series, which underscores how much of his production comes within the flow of the game. He’s doing it the hard way, without relying on foul calls or the charity stripe.

A Team Effort Fueling Indiana’s Championship Dreams

Pascal Siakam’s Veteran Presence

Pascal Siakam, with his championship pedigree from the 2019 Raptors run, has brought leadership and scoring punch to the Pacers. Averaging 18.3 points and 7.7 rebounds, he’s been Indiana’s most consistent offensive weapon. Siakam’s mid-range efficiency is giving Oklahoma City fits, as he has largely avoided the three-point line, focusing on high-percentage looks inside the arc.

Andrew Nembhard’s Defensive Brilliance

On the defensive end, Andrew Nembhard is quietly becoming Indiana’s x-factor. Tasked with guarding Oklahoma City’s superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nembhard has held the dynamic scorer to just 35% shooting when matched up. While not a top scorer himself, Nembhard’s effort and intensity have proven invaluable, especially during crunch time.

Thunder’s Stars Continue to Shine Despite Game 3 Loss

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Remains a Force

Despite a dip in performance in Game 3, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is still the most electric player on the floor. Averaging 32.0 points per game in the Finals, he is the engine of Oklahoma City’s offense. However, fatigue appeared to set in during the fourth quarter of Game 3, where he managed just one field goal and committed six turnovers. Even so, his ability to shift momentum with a single possession keeps him a frontrunner in the MVP race — especially if the Thunder bounce back in Game 4.

Jalen Williams Seeking Breakout Moment

Second-in-command Jalen Williams has been solid with 20.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, but many feel he has yet to unleash his full potential. Game 3 showed flashes of what Williams can do, particularly late in the third quarter when he helped the Thunder regain a brief lead. With Siakam commanding so much attention, Williams’ ability to step up could be pivotal as the series continues.

What’s at Stake in the Rest of the Series

The NBA Finals are more than just a battle for the Larry O’Brien Trophy — they’re a proving ground for rising stars and seasoned veterans alike. For Tyrese Haliburton, this could be the beginning of a legacy-defining run. For the Thunder, a title would validate a record-setting year and mark a return to championship glory after years of rebuilding.

With the Pacers currently holding a 2–1 series lead, every possession, adjustment, and defensive rotation takes on heightened importance. Game 4 looms large, and so do the questions:

Can Haliburton maintain his composure and push Indiana toward its first title in decades?

Will Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder respond with the firepower that made them historic scorers this season?

A Historic Series in the Making

As one team continues to rewrite offensive records and the other builds an underdog story filled with grit and growth, the 2025 NBA Finals are shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent memory. From the breakout performances to the evolving MVP race, this is a basketball saga where history, heart, and hope collide on the court.