Last night, the Oklahoma City Thunder clinched their place in the NBA Finals by sweeping the Minnesota Timberwolves in a decisive series. This marks the franchise’s first appearance in the Finals since 2012, when a young core including Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and Serge Ibaka led the team on a similar run.
Unlike their underdog status a decade ago against a LeBron James-led Miami Heat team, the Thunder now enter the championship as favorites. At the forefront is the league MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whose outstanding season has propelled the team’s confident pursuit of a title.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Rise from Prospect to MVP
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey is a testament to perseverance and growth. Originally a late lottery pick with a slender frame, he has transformed into an MVP candidate and now the undeniable star of the Thunder. His commitment to improvement persisted even during seasons when the team struggled and he spent significant time sidelined, helping forge the player he is today.
A Focus on Continued Effort Despite Milestone Achievement
Despite the triumphant sweep, Gilgeous-Alexander remains grounded regarding the team’s ultimate goal. In his post-game interview with Scott Van Pelt, he acknowledged the challenges the team has overcome and the work that still lies ahead.
“It’s a lot of hard work to make it this late into the season, a lot of ups and downs,”
Gilgeous-Alexander began.
“It’s important to be grateful, it’s important to enjoy this moment, you never know how many times it’s gonna happen, but it’s also very important to know that we have more work to do and I think this group is the perfect group to handle that mentally.”
—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, MVP and Oklahoma City Thunder guard
Echoes of Kobe Bryant’s Relentless Mindset
Gilgeous-Alexander’s attitude echoes that of Kobe Bryant, who famously refused to celebrate prematurely during the 2009 NBA Finals. Though his Lakers led 2-0 at the time, Bryant’s focus remained unwavering, stating simply:
“What’s there to be happy about? Job’s not finished.”
—Kobe Bryant, NBA legend
Bryant secured five championships over his career, including three with Shaquille O’Neal and two later with Pau Gasol. In contrast, Gilgeous-Alexander is still pursuing his first championship, motivated by the legacy of greats like Bryant.
Thunder’s Roster Stability Sets Foundation for Future Success
The Thunder are positioned well not only for this postseason but for sustained success, facing no major free agency losses this offseason. Shai’s excitement about the team’s potential stems from their discipline and shared mindset.
“We don’t ever play the score. We play possessions,”
Gilgeous-Alexander explained.
“We play to our standard every possession, and we try to win every possession. When you do that, you go on big runs and you’re up 20, you’re up 30, you never know what you’re up… That’s why we’re a pretty good team.”
—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, MVP and Oklahoma City Thunder guard
Thunder’s Dominance Signals a Promising Future
Oklahoma City’s performance this season was remarkable, posting a net rating surpassing even the legendary 73-9 Golden State Warriors and 72-10 Chicago Bulls. The team now awaits to see if the New York Knicks can overcome a 3-1 deficit or if the Indiana Pacers will visit for Games 1 and 2 of the NBA Finals.
The Thunder’s blend of talent, momentum, and mental toughness under Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership suggests that they are poised to make a lasting impact on the league’s biggest stage. With a focus on every possession and the determination to finish what they started, Oklahoma City fans have every reason to be hopeful about the near future.