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Gilgeous-Alexander leads Thunder to dominant win over T'Wolves to make NBA Finals

Gilgeous-Alexander leads Thunder to dominant win over T'Wolves to make NBA Finals

The Oklahoma City Thunder are heading back to the NBA Finals for the first time in 13 years, making a loud statement with a dominant 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 34-point masterpiece, the Thunder sealed the Western Conference Finals with a commanding 4-1 series win. This emphatic performance sets the stage for a June 5 NBA Finals opener, where OKC will face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks.

This blog dives deep into Oklahoma City’s rise, key player performances, historical context, tactical brilliance, and what this means for the franchise moving forward.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: MVP Mentality on Full Display

No player symbolized Oklahoma City’s playoff journey more than Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA). With 34 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds, SGA once again showcased why he earned the 2025 NBA Most Valuable Player award.

From the opening tip, Gilgeous-Alexander set the tone, scoring 12 points in the first quarter alone and breaking down Minnesota’s defense with his crafty dribble penetration and midrange excellence. His poise under pressure and leadership were instrumental in the Thunder’s dominance.

“This is a step in the right direction, but we’ve got a lot more work to do,” Gilgeous-Alexander stated postgame. “Our ultimate goal isn’t just reaching the Finals — it’s winning it.”

His hunger reflects the collective mindset of a young Thunder team growing with every game.

Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams: The Perfect Supporting Cast

While SGA was the headliner, the Thunder’s supporting cast delivered on both ends. Chet Holmgren, the 7-foot rookie sensation, tallied 22 points and anchored the paint with elite shot-altering presence. His ability to stretch the floor offensively and protect the rim defensively made life miserable for Minnesota.

Jalen Williams, the dynamic wing, added 19 points and continued his breakout playoff run. His versatility, athleticism, and defensive tenacity allowed OKC to dominate transition and half-court sets alike.

“We’re not done yet,” Holmgren said after the win. “This is just a step in our journey. We’ve still got a season to play — in the Finals.”

Williams added: “We’ve bonded through every up and down this season. That’s why we’re here. It’s exciting, but we know there’s work left.”

Minnesota Crumbles Under Pressure

On the other side, the Minnesota Timberwolves — playing in their first conference finals since 2004 — couldn’t match Oklahoma City’s intensity. Despite strong seasons from Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, the Wolves faltered in their biggest game of the year.

  • Julius Randle led Minnesota with 24 points.
  • Anthony Edwards added 19, but struggled to find rhythm early.

The Wolves were shell-shocked in the first quarter, shooting just 3-for-20 and scoring only 9 points, their lowest scoring quarter of the season. Oklahoma City’s suffocating defense forced 14 first-half turnovers, and the Thunder entered halftime with a 65-32 lead.

“They came ready to play. We didn’t,” admitted Edwards. “They dominated the game from the tip.”

Coach Mark Daigneault’s Tactical Brilliance

Mark Daigneault, one of the league’s brightest young coaches, continues to prove he’s the right man to lead Oklahoma City into the future. His game plan in Game 5 was flawless:

  • Defensive Pressure Early: The Thunder’s defensive rotation stifled Minnesota’s ball movement and forced bad shots.
  • Ball Movement: Oklahoma City’s offense was surgical, with quick passing leading to open threes and efficient midrange looks.
  • Bench Contribution: Players like Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins stepped up, maintaining pressure even when the starters rested.

“These guys are uncommon,” Daigneault said of his squad. “They’re high character, competitive, and always team-first.”

From start to finish, the Thunder executed their coach’s vision to perfection.

Thunder Set the Tone Early

Oklahoma City wasted no time asserting dominance. After a quick 11-3 lead, the Thunder closed the first quarter with a 13-2 run, taking a 26-9 advantage. The Timberwolves looked disoriented — missing 10 of their first 11 shots and committing multiple turnovers.

By early in the second quarter, the lead ballooned to 48-20. The Thunder’s relentless pace and execution left Minnesota scrambling, and the 65-32 halftime scoreline virtually sealed the outcome.

“We kept our foot on the gas for 48 minutes,” Daigneault said. “The tone we set in the game was really good from the jump.”

Defense Wins Championships: Thunder’s Identity

Much of Oklahoma City’s resurgence this season stems from its elite defense. The Thunder forced Minnesota into bad shots, controlled the boards, and turned defense into fast-break opportunities.

Chet Holmgren’s rim protection, combined with the perimeter defense of Lu Dort and Jalen Williams, formed the backbone of a defense that ranked among the best in the league.

In Game 5:

  • Minnesota shot just 35% from the field.
  • Oklahoma City forced 18 total turnovers.
  • The Wolves shot a dismal 1-for-9 from three in the first quarter.

This defensive dominance has become Oklahoma City’s calling card and will be crucial against the Eastern Conference champion.

Thunder’s Road to the NBA Finals

The path to the NBA Finals wasn’t easy for Oklahoma City, but their regular-season dominance carried over into the postseason.

  • Regular Season Record: 68-14 (Best in the NBA)
  • First Round: Defeated Phoenix Suns 4-1
  • Conference Semifinals: Overcame defending champs Denver Nuggets 4-2
  • Conference Finals: Dominated Minnesota Timberwolves 4-1

This marks their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, when they lost to the Miami Heat. That team featured Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden. Now, a new generation led by SGA, Holmgren, and Williams looks to make history.

A Title Within Reach: What’s Next for OKC?

The Thunder will host Game 1 of the NBA Finals on June 5, with their opponent still to be decided between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks. Both Eastern Conference teams bring unique challenges:

  • New York Knicks: Physical, grind-it-out style. Excellent rebounding and defense.
  • Indiana Pacers: Fast-paced, high-scoring, led by dynamic point guard Tyrese Haliburton.

Regardless of the opponent, Oklahoma City will enter as slight favorites given their depth, youth, and home-court advantage.

Key Stats from Game 5

Stat

OKC Thunder

Minnesota T-Wolves

Points

124

94

Field Goal %

52%

35%

Three-Point %

41%

27%

Turnovers Forced

18

9

First Quarter Points

26

9

Rebounds

48

40

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