Thunder Dominate Timberwolves 124-94, Secure NBA Finals Spot

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lit up the scoreboard with 34 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder dismantled the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 on Wednesday night, clinching the Western Conference finals series 4-1. This victory marks the Thunder's first trip to the NBA Finals since 2012.

Chet Holmgren contributed significantly with 22 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, while Jalen Williams added 19 points and eight rebounds, showcasing a well-rounded team effort.

As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, a jubilant crowd erupted when the Thunder's starters were benched with 5:14 left on the clock and a commanding 108-74 lead. This moment was particularly sweet for a fanbase that endured the departure of Kevin Durant in 2016 and a subsequent rebuilding phase that saw the team languishing near the bottom of the standings just four years ago.

Looking ahead, Oklahoma City is set to face either the Indiana Pacers or New York Knicks in the Finals. Currently, Indiana leads the Eastern Conference finals series 3-1, with Game 5 scheduled for Thursday in New York City. The Thunder will enjoy homecourt advantage when the Finals commence on June 5, thanks to their impressive league-best record of 68-14 during the regular season.

For the Timberwolves, Julius Randle led with 24 points, while Anthony Edwards chipped in 19. However, Minnesota struggled offensively, shooting only 41.2% from the field and committing a staggering 21 turnovers throughout the game.

The Thunder set the tone early, jumping out to an 11-3 lead and maintaining control throughout the first quarter. Cason Wallace capped off a dominant period with a three-pointer at the buzzer, ending the quarter with Oklahoma City ahead 26-9.

By halftime, the Thunder had built a substantial lead of 65-32 and entered the fourth quarter with an 88-62 advantage, firmly in control of the game.

Please note: the original video first aired in Jan. 2025.