Just days after guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA title since relocating from Seattle, guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander addressed critics in a thought-provoking poem shared on Instagram. Reflecting on the 2024-25 season, Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged the skepticism that surrounded the team’s rise but emphasized their resilience and focus throughout the journey.
Thunder’s Dominant Run to the 2025 NBA Championship
The 2024-25 Oklahoma City Thunder team completed an impressive season with a franchise-record 68 regular-season wins, culminating in an NBA Finals victory over the Indiana Pacers. Along the way, they overcame formidable opponents including the Memphis Grizzlies, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves during the playoffs. Gilgeous-Alexander captured both the regular-season MVP and NBA Finals MVP honors, cementing his leadership role.
OKC’s ascent was remarkable considering their struggles just a few seasons prior, when they posted a disappointing 24-58 record in 2021-22. The team improved steadily over the next three seasons, reaching 40-42, then 57-25, before reaching their championship-winning high.
Youth and Talent Fuel Thunder’s Success
The Thunder’s core revolves around young, promising players built around Gilgeous-Alexander, who was acquired in 2019 via the Paul George trade with the Los Angeles Clippers. Key contributors include 23-year-olds Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, as well as 21-year-old Cason Wallace. The relative inexperience of the roster did not hinder their performance, as the squad proved capable of navigating tough postseason challenges, including grueling seven-game series victories against Denver in the Western Conference semifinals and Indiana in the NBA Finals.
Gilgeous-Alexander himself is only 26 years old, and the roster features no player with more than eight NBA seasons. Veterans Alex Caruso and Kenrich Williams provide experience as the only players older than 27. This blend of youth and guidance has established a strong foundation for the team.
Building a Potential Dynasty Around Gilgeous-Alexander
With the Thunder’s first championship since their franchise relocation, the outlook for Oklahoma City appears promising. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership and elite play, combined with a talented supporting cast, position the Thunder as a likely perennial contender in the NBA. The team’s rapid progression from rebuilding to champions suggests a bright future, possibly heralding a new dynasty in professional basketball.
“I spent the last few days thinking and while I reflected,I accepted,that half of the opinions on our trajectory were rooted in resentment.It was in front of your face all year,But you chose to neglect it.The more milestones we reached,The more people disrespected.They tried to say we were too young,Hating on how we were connected.Predicted our downfall every step of the way& when we succeeded they acted like it was expected.We ignored the noise,They said i was being nonchalant bc I never would address it,Why would I shed light on rage bait and misdirection?I’d rather be the reason that you stand corrected.Staring at the Larry O.,my only competition is the man in the reflection..” —Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder Guard