Pacers last NBA Finals appearance

The Indiana Pacers last appeared in the NBA Finals in 2025, marking their second appearance in the championship series. The Pacers first reached the Finals in 2000, a notable season for the franchise as they were led by Reggie Miller and coached by Larry Bird. In that series, they faced the Los Angeles Lakers, a team featuring superstars Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant. The Pacers were unable to secure a victory, ultimately losing the series to the Lakers. This loss was significant for the franchise, as it highlighted the challenges of competing against a team with such high-caliber talent. In their second Finals appearance in 2025, the Pacers were led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. They faced the Oklahoma City Thunder, who were led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Despite the efforts of Haliburton and Siakam, the Pacers again fell short, marking another loss in the Finals. The Pacers' history in the NBA Finals reflects the difficulties faced by teams in the league, particularly when matched against established powerhouses. The franchise has yet to secure an NBA championship, and these Finals appearances remain pivotal moments in their history, shaping their identity and aspirations in the league.