Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) points during the first half of Game 5 of the Western Conference finals of the NBA basketball playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)
Thunder overwhelm Wolves in a dominating Game 5 game, rushing into the NBA Finals 2025 with an overwhelming 124-94 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Oklahoma City dominated every one of the four quarters, allowing no room for a Timberwolves rally and ending the Western Conference Finals with authority. In this win, the Thunder advance to their first NBA Finals since 2012 and the fifth appearance in the Finals in franchise history. Oklahoma City was business from the opening tip, playing with urgency, confidence, and an unrelenting tempo on both sides of the court. Their energy was too much to handle for Minnesota, who were unable to match the tempo.
Gilgeous-Alexander Shines as Thunder's Star
Thunder Thump Wolves wasn’t the report it appeared — it was the real deal courtesy of MVP hopeful Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who put on another eye-popping display. Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 34 points, chipped in eight assists, and grabbed seven boards, showing just why he’s among the best in the league. Chet Holmgren added support with 22 points and seven boards, bullying the paint and making Minnesota’s front line miserable. Jalen Williams also shone, scoring 19 points and chipping in eight rebounds and five assists. The Thunder moved like one unit, running the break, passing quickly, and converting chances with surgical precision.
First Quarter Dominance
As early as the initial quarter, Oklahoma City seized the game by the throat. They were 17 points ahead going into the first quarter and stretched the lead to a massive 33 points at halftime. The pinnacle of the half was when new rookie Cason Wallace made a buzzer-beating corner three, sending the home fans into a frenzy. The Thunder’s defense was equally intriguing, with 14 turnovers and the Timberwolves only being given 12 field goals for the first half. All players on the floor were giving it their all, scoring or defending with fervor and vigor.
Timberwolves Fall Short Again
Despite the Timberwolves’ solid season, they couldn’t break through in the Western Conference Finals for a second straight year. Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with heart, and Julius Randle added offensive firepower, but both stars failed to crack the Thunder’s defensive wall. After the game, Edwards admitted, “They were the better team tonight in every way.” Minnesota’s bench also struggled to provide any meaningful impact, while Oklahoma City’s depth proved decisive. The contrast between the two teams’ execution was evident from the first whistle.
Finals Await for Rising Thunder
Now, as Thunder thrash Wolves and secure their place in the NBA Finals 2025, all eyes turn to the Eastern Conference Finals. Oklahoma City will face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks, both still locked in a competitive series. Game 1 of the Finals is set for June 5, with the Thunder holding home-court advantage. While celebrating their commanding win, Gilgeous-Alexander made it clear that the job isn’t finished. “We’re not done yet,” he said. “The Finals are where legends are made, and we’re just getting started.”




