Oklahoma City Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins delivered a key performance in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals, scoring 18 points and hitting five three-pointers to help his team defeat the Indiana Pacers 123-107 and even the series at 1-1.
After the game, Wiggins attributed his success to staying ready and trusting his preparation.
“Just try to go out there, contribute to the team, help put us in a position to win,” he said. “Got hot. The guys kept finding me, so just stuck with it.”
Wiggins’ role in the second quarter proved critical. He was part of a 19-2 run that turned a tight contest into a commanding lead.
“We just kind of found a rhythm on both ends of the court,” Wiggins said. “We were able to get stops, get out in transition, hit a couple shots. You could feel the energy.”
He praised Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led all scorers with 34 points, for his unselfish play.
“When he’s out there sharing the ball and getting other guys involved, that’s when our team is at our best,” Wiggins said. “Credit to him for playing the game the right way.”
Despite inconsistent minutes throughout the season, the 26-year-old emphasized the importance of perspective.
“Obviously you’re not going to like low minutes or not playing consistently, but it’s the NBA. There’s a lot of highs and lows,” he said. “I’m still blessed to be in the NBA and do what I love.”
Wiggins also pointed to his adaptability as a strength, noting that his experience in different roles has helped him stay effective in various lineups.
“I’ve been in every different position—having the ball, being a second or third option, coming off the bench,” he said. “Regardless of what’s asked of me, I just want to win first.”
Asked if his regular-season scoring nights prepared him for the Finals stage, Wiggins said it gave him confidence.
“Knowing you’re capable of it and you’ve done it before allows you to play confident and free,” he said.
He also reflected on his roots in Greensboro, North Carolina.
“Being from Greensboro, my journey built me to be grateful and take advantage of opportunities,” Wiggins said. “I always think back to being at home and staying grounded.”
With the series shifting to Indiana for Game 3, Wiggins stressed the importance of maintaining intensity.
“They did it in Game 1,” he said, referencing Indiana’s comeback. “We’ve got to make sure we don’t take our foot off the gas.”
Wiggins’ mindset heading into Wednesday remains the same: contribute in any way possible.
“If I score zero points but I get 15 rebounds and play 20 minutes, I’m happy,” he said. “Win-first mentality.”
