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Read Article NBA first basket predictions for Game 7 include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Pascal Siakam [6/22/2025]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities
Our expert analysis on Sunday's NBA first basket market.
This Sunday, June 22nd, another action-packed day of NBA Finals action is on the cards, with the Pacers facing the Thunder Game 7 of the 2025 Finals at 8:00PM ET.
After scrutinizing Sunday's NBA simulation results this morning (see Dimers Pro for full access), our team of data analysts have announced their best first basket bet of the day.
Bet smarter with Pro: Use 20BASKETBALL for 20% off Get Dimers Pro Additionally, this article reveals the NBA players our predictive analytics model has identified as having the highest probability of scoring the first basket in Sunday's lone game.
Let's dive into today's NBA first basket news and updates.
NBA Players to Watch Today
Based on the most recent latest NBA Injury Report, Sunday's NBA Finals Game 7 is set to feature big names such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Pascal Siakam and Jalen Williams, each with a high probability of opening the scoring in tonight's matchup.
Who Will Score the First Basket Tonight? [NBA Cheat Sheet for June 22, 2025]
According to our data-driven analysis, the most likely NBA player to score the first basket in Sunday's clash is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, with a probability of 15.7%.
With Game 7 of the NBA Finals between OKC and Indiana on the slate for tonight, here are the probabilities for each of the 10 expected starters to score the first basket:
| Player (Team) | First Basket Probability |
|---|---|
| Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder) | 15.7% |
| Pascal Siakam (Pacers) | 13.9% |
| Jalen Williams (Thunder) | 13.6% |
| Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers) | 11.9% |
| Chet Holmgren (Thunder) | 9.7% |
| Myles Turner (Pacers) | 8.9% |
| Aaron Nesmith (Pacers) | 8.5% |
| Andrew Nembhard (Pacers) | 6.8% |
| Isaiah Hartenstein (Thunder) | 6.3% |
| Luguentz Dort (Thunder) | 4.7% |
Following Gilgeous-Alexander closely, the players with the next highest likelihood of scoring the first basket today are Pascal Siakam at 13.9% and Jalen Williams at 13.6%.
Dimers Pro Pick of the Day: NBA First Basket [NBA Finals Game 7]
Having simulated the outcome of today's Pacers vs. Thunder Game 7, our independent predictive analytics model has discovered the best NBA first basket bet for you to make on Sunday.
For full access to our comprehensive analysis and top picks, subscribe to Dimers Pro.
Tyrese Haliburton To Score First Basket
- Odds: +1200
- Edge: 4.2%
- Probability: 11.9%
- Game: Pacers vs. Thunder (8:00PM ET)
Our model has identified the best NBA first basket bet for Game 7 between the Pacers and Thunder. The bet is on Tyrese Haliburton (IND) at odds of +1200 with FanDuel Sportsbook, with an edge of 4.2% according to our analysis.
Our model not only highlights Haliburton for his 4.2% betting edge but also ranks him among the top five most first basket likely scorers for today's Pacers vs. Thunder game, as seen in the preceding list.
Closer Look at Today's First Basket Props
NBA first basket props have become one of the more popular betting options for basketball bettors. By using Sunday's data-driven NBA predictions, you can gain an advantage over everyone else.
For today's full list of NBA Finals prop picks, join Dimers Pro. We give you the tools and information to succeed with hundreds of data-driven bets across thousands of games. Sign up now to join the community!
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Today's NBA First Basket Picks: June 22, 2025
This NBA first basket article has been partially generated using automated processes and AI technology. Our goal is to provide timely and accurate updates on NBA first basket picks for June 22, 2025. Automation assists in data collection, analysis, and formatting, while human editing and quality control ensure the content meets our editorial guidelines.
All of Dimers' NBA first basket picks for Sunday, June 22, are made after thousands of data-driven game simulations, giving you reliable and accurate NBA predictions to help you make informed decisions.
If you use today's NBA first basket predictions for your personal gambling, it's vital that you practice responsible gambling and manage your bankroll effectively. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Understanding Betting Edge
At Dimers, an "edge" in betting signifies our belief that an event's probability is higher than the best available NBA odds suggest. A higher betting edge indicates a greater likelihood of success. However, it's essential to remember that no bet is guaranteed, and responsible gambling practices are crucial for long-term success.
More on NBA
This article is part of our NBA player props and NBA best bets series.
For more NBA betting content, we have NBA trends for every game, as well as daily NBA betting news and the latest NBA title odds and predictions.
Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.
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