Sports
Thunder Reach NBA Finals 2025 After Dominant 4-1 Series Win Over Timberwolves
May
Thunder Reach NBA Finals 2025 with a commanding 124–94 victory in Game 5, completing a 4–1 series rout of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Oklahoma City’s young core lit up Paycom Center with a statement of intent as they punch their ticket to the biggest stage in basketball.
From explosive offense to suffocating defense, OKC delivered a near-flawless performance to end the Western Conference Finals in style. This victory marks a historic moment in their playoff journey.
Thunder Dominate Game 5 to Clinch the Series
OKC opened the night with intensity, outscoring Minnesota 26–9 in the first quarter. That early lead never wavered, as the Thunder poured in 39 points in the second frame and dismantled the Timberwolves’ defensive schemes.
The home crowd roared as OKC maintained their energy through four quarters, capping off the win with a 36-point fourth quarter and a +30 point differential overall.
Jalen Williams Sets the Tone Early
Williams dropped 19 points with 8 rebounds and 5 assists, pushing the pace and attacking mismatches to keep Minnesota on their heels.
Chet Holmgren’s Paint Impact
Holmgren racked up 22 points and 7 rebounds, anchoring the defense and stretching the floor with confident midrange shots.
Paycom Center Was Unstoppable
From the tip-off, OKC fans made Paycom a fortress. Every three-pointer, every block echoed like a drumbeat toward victory.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads with 34 Points
Shai once again proved why he’s one of the best in the league. He not only scored 34 but also dished out 8 assists, controlling tempo and drawing fouls to disrupt the Wolves’ rhythm.
This postseason, Shai has averaged over 30 points and continues to deliver MVP-caliber moments night after night.
Shai’s Court Vision and Control
He dictated the flow of play, whether in half-court sets or fast-break transitions, breaking down the Timberwolves’ coverage with patience.
Clutch Scoring in the Third Quarter
When Minnesota threatened a comeback, Shai responded with back-to-back buckets and a step-back three to halt their momentum.
Timberwolves Collapse Under Pressure
Despite standout efforts from Julius Randle (24 points) and Anthony Edwards (19 points), Minnesota couldn’t close the gap. Their 9-point first quarter dug a hole too deep to climb out of.
Thunder’s aggressive perimeter defense and transition play broke down the Wolves’ offensive rhythm, forcing 21 turnovers and converting them into 30+ points.
Bench Production Was Non-Existent
Timberwolves’ bench managed just 16 points combined, while OKC’s reserves provided spark and hustle across the board.
Defensive Rotations Were Late
Open looks and poor closeouts allowed Thunder to shoot 52.3% from the field, including 40% from deep.
Thunder Reach NBA Finals 2025: The Road Ahead
OKC will face the Eastern Conference champion in a best-of-seven clash, starting June 6. The schedule is set, and Paycom Center will once again host Game 1.
This marks the Thunder’s first NBA Finals appearance since the Durant-Westbrook-Harden era—and this time, it feels different. The chemistry, belief, and execution are peaking at the perfect moment.
Finals Game 1: June 6, 7:30 ET
Set your calendar. This is the biggest night in OKC basketball in over a decade.
Young Core, Big Dreams
With Shai, Jalen, and Chet leading the way, OKC has arrived ahead of schedule—and they’re hungry for more.
Watch Game 5 Recap & Gear Up for the Finals
Relive every highlight from the 124–94 blowout win over Minnesota that sealed OKC’s ticket to the NBA Finals. Check out the official NBA Game Recap for full stats, key plays, and postgame reactions.
Don’t miss our spotlight on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s playoff evolution, and browse exclusive fan merch in our Oklahoma City Thunder apparel collection.
FAQ: Thunder Reach NBA Finals 2025
Who did OKC beat in the Western Finals?
The Minnesota Timberwolves, 4–1.
What was the final score of Game 5?
Thunder 124, Timberwolves 94.
When is NBA Finals Game 1?
Friday, June 6 at 7:30 ET at Paycom Center.
Who was the leading scorer?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 34 points.
