Sports
Thunder Go Up 2-0 in Western Conference Finals
May
Thunder Go Up 2-0 in Western Conference Finals after a 118–103 win over the Timberwolves. Behind Shai’s 36-point masterpiece and a dominant second-half surge, Oklahoma City takes a commanding lead in front of a roaring Paycom Center crowd.
This victory puts OKC just two wins away from reaching the NBA Finals. Their depth, poise, and pace overwhelmed Minnesota again—and fans are starting to believe in something special brewing in 2025.
Shai Drops 36 to Lead the Thunder Charge
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was electric all night long. The All-NBA guard finished with 36 points, 9 assists, and 3 rebounds, carving up the Timberwolves defense at every level. Whether from the midrange, the line, or the lane, SGA played with superstar confidence.
He now averages 33.5 PPG through the first two games, setting the tone for this series. His Game 2 brilliance builds off the momentum we saw in Game 1.
SGA’s Craft Kills Drop Coverage
Every time Minnesota switched or went under, Shai punished them. From floaters to fadeaways, his shot selection was surgical.
9 Assists Highlight His Playmaking Vision
It wasn’t just scoring. SGA dished dimes that led to key buckets in transition and the half court, keeping OKC’s offense humming.
Jalen Williams, Chet, Hartenstein: OKC’s Frontcourt Answers the Call
Jalen Williams added 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, showing his two-way value once again. Chet Holmgren scored 22, hitting threes and defending the paint. Isaiah Hartenstein chipped in 6 points with 8 rebounds and crucial screens.
This trio dominated the Timberwolves’ frontcourt, which struggled to keep up with OKC’s pace and skill.
Jalen’s All-Around Game Elevates OKC
His court awareness and rebounding gave the Thunder second-chance opportunities all night long.
Chet’s Paint Presence Disrupted Edwards
While Anthony Edwards finished with 32 points, many came under heavy pressure. Chet’s length altered shots and sealed off driving lanes.
Thunder Defense Shuts Down Timberwolves in 2nd Half
After giving up 50 points in the first half, OKC locked in defensively. They forced tough looks, clogged lanes, and held Minnesota to just 21 and 32 points in the final two quarters. Dort, Wallace, and Caruso applied relentless perimeter pressure.
Every possession was contested. Every screen was fought through. Every rebound mattered. Thunder are playing defense like champions.
Dort Silences McDaniels
Jaden McDaniels, who had 22 in Game 1, was held in check by Dort’s physicality and elite footwork.
Turnovers Hurt Timberwolves’ Rhythm
OKC forced 14 turnovers and turned them into 19 fast-break points. That was the backbreaker.
What This Win Means for Thunder’s Finals Aspirations
The series now shifts to Minnesota, but the Thunder hold a 2-0 lead with all the momentum. If they can steal Game 3, the Western Finals may not last long. But the job’s not done yet.
As covered in our Thunder Up 2025 journey, this run is about more than one playoff series—it’s a young team growing into greatness before our eyes.
Game 3 Preview: Intensity Incoming
Expect a desperate Timberwolves squad and a loud Target Center. The Thunder must stay poised and execute.
Shai’s Leadership Defines This Era
Through all the big moments, SGA keeps leading with his voice, his vision, and his buckets.
Watch Game 2 Recap & Join the Thunder Surge
Check out the full highlights and player reactions at the Game 2 official recap on The Oklahoman.
Support the run—grab your fan gear from the Oklahoma City Thunder apparel collection and show the league which side you’re on.
FAQ: Thunder Go Up 2-0 in Western Conference Finals
What’s the series score now?
Thunder leads Timberwolves 2-0.
Who was the top scorer in Game 2?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 36 points and 9 assists.
What was the turning point?
OKC’s defense in the second half and SGA’s clutch playmaking.
When is Game 3?
Game 3 will take place in Minnesota this weekend.
