Why Is It Called “The Paul George Cup”?
The 2025 NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers has been playfully dubbed “The Paul George Cup” by fans—a catchy name that’s far from coincidental. The moniker stems from the fascinating career journey of Paul George, a star who has donned the jerseys of both teams competing in this year’s championship.
Paul George is not just a former player for the Thunder and Pacers; he’s a pivotal figure in the trade deals that shaped the current rosters of both franchises. The transactions involving George brought key players to Indiana and Oklahoma City, players who are now leading their teams to glory.
Paul George’s Career Journey
Starting with the Indiana Pacers (2010-2017)
Paul George was selected by the Indiana Pacers as the 10th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, marking the beginning of a remarkable seven-year tenure in Indianapolis. During this time, George evolved from a promising rookie into one of the league’s brightest stars. At his peak with the Pacers, he became the face of the franchise and a fan favorite. However, as his contract neared its end, George began exploring new paths for his future.
The Oklahoma City Chapter (2017-2019)
The summer of 2017 marked a turning point in Paul George’s career. Facing the risk of losing him for nothing, the Pacers made a historic trade.
Details of the Paul George Trade from Pacers to Thunder:
- Indiana Pacers received:
- Victor Oladipo: A talented guard with elite scoring and defensive skills
- Domantas Sabonis: A versatile forward/center with all-around abilities
- Oklahoma City Thunder received:
- Paul George: An All-Star forward known for his scoring and defensive prowess
Initially, many viewed this trade as a win for the Thunder, but time has shown that both teams got exactly what they needed.
The Los Angeles Clippers Era (2019-2024)
After two years with Oklahoma City, Paul George shocked the basketball world again by moving to the Los Angeles Clippers in the summer of 2019. This move not only shook up the league but also brought the Thunder a haul of draft picks and young talent.
Details of the Paul George Trade from Thunder to Clippers:
- Oklahoma City Thunder received:
- Danilo Gallinari: An Italian forward with exceptional three-point shooting
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A young, talented guard (now the Thunder’s MVP)
- A series of valuable draft picks:
- 2021 first-round pick (used to select Tre Mann)
- 2022 first-round pick (used to select Jalen Williams)
- 2024 first-round pick (used to select Dillon Jones)
- 2025 pick swap rights
- Los Angeles Clippers received:
- Paul George
A New Chapter with the Philadelphia 76ers (2024-Present)
In 2024, Paul George made another major move, signing a four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. However, his first season in Philly was marred by injuries, limiting him to just 41 games.
Stars Born from the “Paul George Effect”
Tyrese Haliburton: Indiana’s Gem
The chain of trades sparked by Paul George ultimately brought a new star to the Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton. The journey unfolded as follows:
- Paul George → Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis
- Domantas Sabonis → Tyrese Haliburton (in a 2022 trade)
Haliburton is now the Pacers’ brightest star, boasting elite playmaking (10.1 assists per game) and a modern playing style. He has become the new face of the Indiana franchise.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Thunder’s MVP
For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander—acquired in the Paul George trade with the Clippers—has blossomed into one of the league’s top players. Averaging 27.4 points per game with exceptional leadership, SGA has propelled the Thunder back into championship contention.
Statistical Comparison: Past and Present
Tyrese Haliburton vs. Paul George (Pacers Era)
|
Stat |
Haliburton (2022-25) | Paul George (2010-17) |
|---|---|---|
| Trận đấu/mùa | 224 | 448 |
| Điểm/trận | 19.5 | 18.1 |
| Rebounds/trận | 3.8 | 6.3 |
| Assists/trận | 10.1 | 3.2 |
| Steals/trận | 1.5 | 1.7 |
| FG% | 48.2% | 43.2% |
| 3P% | 38.6% | 37.0% |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Paul George (Thunder Era)
|
Stat |
SGA (2019-25) | Paul George (2017-19) |
|---|---|---|
| Trận đấu | 380 | 156 |
| Điểm/trận | 27.4 | 25.0 |
| Rebounds/trận | 5.2 | 6.9 |
| Assists/trận | 5.5 | 3.7 |
| Steals/trận | 1.5 | 2.1 |
| FG% | 50.3% | 43.4% |
| 3P% | 35.4% | 39.2% |
The Significance of the Finals
The 2025 NBA Finals is not just a clash between two exceptional teams; it’s a testament to the foresight of their front offices. Trade decisions made years ago are now bearing fruit.
The Indiana Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton, and the Oklahoma City Thunder, powered by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, have found new cornerstones to build their futures. Meanwhile, Paul George continues his journey in Philadelphia, though no longer at his peak.The “Paul George Cup” is more than a playful nickname—it reflects the magic of the NBA, where past decisions can create unexpected and compelling stories in the present. This year’s Finals is the clearest evidence of how a single player can shape the destiny of multiple franchises, even long after he’s left them.
Though Paul George will watch the Finals from afar, his impact on the journeys of both the Thunder and Pacers will be remembered forever. This is truly a beautiful story of how the NBA weaves unexpected and meaningful connections between the past, present, and future.