The Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as a formidable force this NBA season, propelled by an exceptionally talented young core, with Chet Holmgren key player in OKC Thunder’s big three. Alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, Holmgren has helped lead the Thunder to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, showcasing both skill and promise in Minneapolis this May.
The Rise of Oklahoma City’s Young Core
The Thunder’s roster is built around three standout players: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the undisputed leader; Chet Holmgren, a versatile stretch center; and Jalen Williams, who stepped up as an All-Star this season. This trio has guided the team through a dominant playoff run, highlighted by a crucial series win over the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center in Minneapolis on May 26, 2025. Their synergy has ignited hopes that this core group will remain intact and competitive for many years.
Defining the Thunder’s “Big Three” Through Development
Unlike typical “big three” formations, often created through high-profile trades or free agency, Oklahoma City’s trio is developed internally. This approach contrasts with teams like the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Brooklyn Nets, known for assembling stars via external acquisitions. The Thunder’s strategy aligns more closely with the San Antonio Spurs’ classic model, which successfully built around homegrown talents like Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker.
Chandler Parsons Highlights Holmgren’s Impact
Former NBA player Chandler Parsons praised Holmgren for his performance during the recent playoffs.
“SGA gets all the flowers, but Chet Holmgren was unbelievable in this series,”
Parsons remarked. He further drew comparisons to other emerging stars, noting,
“We always talk about Evan Mobley for the Cavs has to make that jump, he’s made that jump, and I can argue he can even make a bigger jump to continue to dominate and continue to grow as a big three.”
Parsons emphasized the value of Holmgren’s presence in the Thunder’s lineup.
Overcoming External Comparisons and Team Identity
While Holmgren is often contrasted with his contemporary Victor Wembanyama—who has surpassed him as an individual prospect—OKC’s success stems from the collective strength of their trio. Parsons affirmed,
“We don’t like the big three thing because SGA is so good, but this is a big three, and it is the best big three in the NBA.”
This underscores the team’s unique chemistry and how their combined talents differentiate them from other star groups.
Future Challenges and Sustained Success Ahead
Despite the optimism surrounding the Thunder’s big three, there are concerns about maintaining this core amid salary cap pressures, particularly as the second luxury tax apron nears. The franchise may have to make difficult decisions regarding costly role players to safeguard the continuity of Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Holmgren. Building around these three stars is expected to keep Oklahoma City competitive and in championship conversations for the foreseeable future.