The Oklahoma City Thunder are heading back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012 after a commanding 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals. Led by newly crowned Western Conference Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder overwhelmed the Timberwolves from the opening tip, leaving no doubt about their championship aspirations.
From the outset, Oklahoma City imposed its will on Minnesota, holding the Timberwolves to just nine points in the first quarter—their lowest output in any quarter this season. The Thunder’s suffocating defense forced 21 turnovers, turning defense into offense and building an insurmountable lead by halftime.
By the break, OKC led 65-32, effectively sealing the game before the second half even began. The Thunder’s relentless attack was spearheaded by Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished with 34 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds, capping off a stellar postseason run. Chet Holmgren added 22 points, while Jalen Williams contributed 19 points and eight boards.
After finishing the regular season with the NBA’s best record at 68-14, OKC has continued its dominance in the playoffs, going 12-4 en route to the championship stage. Their young core, featuring Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, and Williams, has proven to be one of the best units in the league.
With the Western Conference title secured, the Thunder now await their opponent in the NBA Finals. They will face the winner of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks, with Indiana currently leading the series 3-1. Game 1 of the Finals is set to tip off on June 5 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City.
