How to Watch NBA Finals Game 5
Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals is scheduled for Monday, June 16, 2025, at 8:30 PM EDT. The game will be played at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, OK.
Here are your viewing options:
In the United States:
- Television:
- ABC will broadcast the game nationally. Pre-game coverage with “NBA Countdown” will begin at 8:00 PM EDT on ABC, with an earlier start on ESPN2 at 7:30 PM EDT.
- Streaming:
- ESPN App: If you have a cable subscription that includes ABC/ESPN, you can likely stream the game live through the ESPN App.
How to Listen to NBA Finals Game 5
If you prefer to listen to the game, here are your radio options:
- ESPN Radio: ESPN Radio will provide a national broadcast of the game. You can find it on ESPN Radio stations across the country or through the ESPN App. Marc Kestecher will be on the call with analyst P.J. Carlesimo and reporter Jorge Sedano.
- SiriusXM Radio:
- National Broadcast: SiriusXM NBA Radio (Channel 80 or similar)
- Oklahoma City Thunder Local Broadcast: SiriusXM Channel 86
- Indiana Pacers Local Broadcast: SiriusXM Channel 81
What’s at Stake in Game 5?
Game 5 in a 2-2 series is often referred to as the “pivotal” game because it gives the winner a crucial 3-2 lead, putting them just one win away from the championship. Here’s what’s on the line for both teams:
For the Oklahoma City Thunder:
- Home Court Advantage: The Thunder will be playing on their home court, the Paycom Center, where they have a strong postseason record (9-2).
- Momentum Shift: After tying the series 2-2 with a strong Game 4 performance, a win in Game 5 would give them immense momentum and put the Pacers on the brink of elimination.
- Clinching Opportunity: Taking a 3-2 lead means they would have two chances to win one game and secure the NBA championship.
- Franchise History: For the Thunder, this is a chance to win their first championship as the Thunder (the franchise’s lone title was in 1979 as the SuperSonics). Winning this game gets them one step closer to that historic achievement.
For the Indiana Pacers:
- Avoiding the Brink: A loss in Game 5 would put them down 3-2 and facing elimination on the road in Game 6. This is a tough position for any team, especially in the Finals.
- Regaining Control: The Pacers had a chance to go up 3-1, but the Thunder’s strong Game 4 performance tied the series. Winning Game 5 would allow them to regain control and force a Game 6 with the pressure shifted back to Oklahoma City.
- Stealing Home Court: A win on the road would be a significant “steal” of home-court advantage, putting them in a position to potentially clinch the series at home in Game 6.
- Championship Dreams: Like the Thunder, the Pacers are chasing their first-ever NBA championship. Winning Game 5 keeps those dreams very much alive and gives them a clear path to the title.
In short, Game 5 is a battle for control of the series. The winner gains a significant psychological edge and a path to clinching the championship, while the loser faces immense pressure and an uphill climb.
Here’s ESPN’s recap of the series so far.
After the Finals are over, all eyes will be on the NBA Draft. Here’s a mock draft for the 2025 NBA Draft.
How to Watch the NBA Finals Game 5