The Oklahoma City Thunder are heading to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012. In their previous appearance, the Thunder, led by Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden, lost to a Miami Heat team featuring LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh in five games.
This time, the Thunder aim to change their fortune after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games. They closed out the series with an emphatic 124-94 victory in Game 5 at home.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 34 points. He also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out eight assists, shooting 14-of-25 from the field and 2-of-4 from three-point range. He did this while attempting only four free throws in the game.
Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams also contributed significantly, scoring 22 and 19 points, respectively, with both players shooting 50% or better from the field. On ESPN's "First Take," Michael Wilbon discussed the statement Oklahoma City is making during this playoff run.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) celebrate after a play.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2), guard Luguentz Dort (5) and forward Chet Holmgren (7) celebrate after a play.
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
"They're growing into a monster right before our eyes," Wilbon said. "You see this with championship teams. Yes, they have to finish; they can't slip up. They need to be healthy through this final series against whoever they're playing. But they're a monster and they're realizing it."
Jay Williams supported Wilbon's statement, stating that when a team recognizes its superiority over the rest of the league, it becomes intimidating for other teams. Williams mentioned that while everyone acknowledges Gilgeous-Alexander as the lead player, the MVP understands the importance of his teammates.
Williams emphasized how well they complement each other, which contributes to the team's success. He noted that he has never seen a team constructed as effectively as the Thunder.
Wilbon also expressed uncertainty about whether there has been a defense as formidable as Oklahoma City's. He acknowledged that the Golden State Warriors in the 2010s were good, but he believes the Thunder is suffocating other teams defensively.
Now, the Thunder are preparing to win their first NBA championship since relocating to Oklahoma City before the 2008 season. Game 1 will take place at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City against either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks.