The Oklahoma City Thunder have officially advanced to the 2025 NBA Finals after dominating the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals on Tuesday.
The Oklahoma City crowd was as loud as ever in the Paycom Center as Game 5 began. While many postseason battles are determined in the final minutes, this game was over in the first quarter.
TOP NEWS
OKC’s spectacular defense put on a show in the opening frame, holding the Timberwolves to 3-of-20 shooting from the field and forcing four Minnesota turnovers. The Thunder had opened up a 26-9 advantage after the opening quarter.
In the second quarter, Minnesota didn’t struggle as badly, but their body language appeared deflated and the deficit only grew. By halftime, they had more turnovers than made field goals.
RELATED: Tyrese Haliburton Makes History In Game 4 Vs. Knicks
Many bad offensive performances can be attributed to simply missing open shots. In Wednesday’s game however, their struggles were forced by OKC’s historically strong defense. The Thunder boast one of the best perimeter defenses in league history, and they proved it with the massive blowout win.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led OKC’s offense with 34 points, eight assists and seven rebounds. Chet Holmgren also had a great game with 22 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.
Anthony Edwards’ struggles continued as he finished with 19 points and six rebounds as Julius Randle put up 24 points and five boards.
After five battles over the course of nine days, the OKC Thunder have earned their spot in the NBA Finals, where they will face the winner of the Pacers-Knicks ECF series.
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
