Pacers flight diverted from Oklahoma City after tornado warning

Field Level Media|published: Tue 3rd June, 19:47 2025

Nov 1, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Details view of the Indiana Pacers logo against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

The Indiana Pacers have waited 25 years to return to the NBA Finals, but they will have to wait a little longer as the team's arrival to Oklahoma City was delayed by weather.

While the Pacers' charter flight was in the air on Tuesday, forecasters issued a tornado warning, flood watch and severe thunderstorm watch for Oklahoma City and surrounding areas.

At least one tornado was spotted in Norman, Oklahoma, roughly 20 miles south of Oklahoma City, but it was not immediately known whether the tornado touched down or caused damage.

Indiana's flight was diverted to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where the plane was refueled. The team expected to arrive in Oklahoma City later Tuesday evening.

The Pacers, making the franchise's second-ever appearance in the Finals and first since 2000, and the Oklahoma City Thunder are scheduled to appear at NBA Finals media day on Wednesday at Paycom Center, which will be the stage for Thursday's Game 1.

--Field Level Media

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