AP Sports Writer Cliff Brunt reported that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder with 34 points in a 124-94 rout of the Minnesota Timberwolves on May 28, 2025, securing a 4-1 series win in the Western Conference finals. This victory marks the Thunder’s first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, setting them up to face either the Indiana Pacers or New York Knicks, with the Eastern Conference finals at 3-1 in favor of Indiana, per ESPN.com.
Key Performances
Chet Holmgren contributed 22 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, while Jalen Williams added 19 points and eight rebounds for the Thunder, who shot efficiently and capitalized on Minnesota’s 21 turnovers. Julius Randle led the Timberwolves with 24 points, and Anthony Edwards scored 19, but Minnesota struggled, shooting just 41.2% from the field. The Thunder’s early 11-3 run set the tone, with a 26-9 lead after the first quarter, per NBA.com game stats.
Looking Ahead
Despite the celebration, Gilgeous-Alexander remained focused, saying, “We’ve got a lot of work to do to get to our ultimate goal,” as the Thunder prepare for the NBA Finals. Minnesota’s Mike Conley reflected on the loss, expressing pride in his team’s effort but acknowledging the rarity of such opportunities. The Thunder’s young core, backed by a passionate fanbase, now aims to claim the Larry O’Brien Trophy for the first time since 1979, per Wikipedia.
