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Thunder Overpowers Timberwolves to NBA Finals

May 29, 2025

Thunder vs. Timberwolves: OKC Overwhelms Minnesota in Game 5 Win

Key Points:

  • Oklahoma City Thunder defeated Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals.
  • The win secured the Thunder's spot in the NBA Finals with a 4-1 series victory.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) was named Western Conference finals MVP for his performance.

Thunder's Dominance:

  • The Thunder were the top team throughout the regular season, dominating the Western Conference playoffs.
  • After a tough series against the Denver Nuggets, which went to Game 7, the Thunder easily handled the Memphis Grizzlies and Minnesota Timberwolves.
  • Oklahoma City’s defense and efficient offense led to commanding victories.

Game Highlights:

  • The Timberwolves scored first but struggled, missing 9 of their next 3-point attempts in the first quarter.
  • By the end of the first quarter, the Thunder led 26-9.
  • Gilgeous-Alexander outscored the entire Timberwolves team in the first quarter, contributing 12 points.
  • At halftime, the Thunder led 65-32, with the Timberwolves committing more turnovers (14) than made field goals (12).
  • Thunder’s defense forced 21 turnovers, and they won the rebounding battle 46-39.

Key Players:

  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 34 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds, 2 steals.
  • Chet Holmgren: 22 points, 7 rebounds, 3 blocks.
  • Jalen Williams: 19 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists.
  • For the Timberwolves, Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards were the only players to score more than 5 points in the game.

Series Context:

  • Thunder’s decisive victory in Game 4 after a loss in Game 3 showed resilience.
  • They consistently overcame any Timberwolves rally attempts.

Looking Ahead:

  • Oklahoma City is favored to win the NBA Finals, likely against the Indiana Pacers.
  • The Thunder swept both potential Finals opponents, the Pacers and Knicks, during the regular season.

Conclusion:

  • Oklahoma City Thunder displayed a different class of basketball, with depth and formidable defense.
  • The Timberwolves, despite efforts, were unable to compete at the same level.