The Oklahoma City Thunder continue to defy expectations and prove they belong on the biggest stage. In Game 1 of the 2025 Western Conference Finals, they took down the battle-tested Minnesota Timberwolves 108–101 behind a masterclass from their superstar guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who poured in 20 second-half points to seal the win and push OKC to a 1–0 series lead.
In a game that showcased elite defense, playoff intensity, and two of the league’s brightest young cores, it was Shai who rose above the chaos—calm, composed, and utterly dominant when the game was on the line.
This wasn’t just a Game 1 victory. It was a statement from the youngest team in the NBA still standing: They’re not just here to compete—they’re here to win.
First Half: A Gritty Battle
From the opening tip, it was clear both teams understood the stakes. The Timberwolves came out aggressive, riding the energy of Anthony Edwards and setting the tone defensively. Rudy Gobert controlled the paint, while Jaden McDaniels made life difficult for Shai early with physical, in-your-jersey defense.
OKC, meanwhile, struggled to find an offensive rhythm in the half court. They committed early turnovers, and their ball movement stalled against Minnesota’s length and disciplined rotations. Despite some timely buckets from Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder trailed 54–49 at the break.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had just 10 points in the first half. Quiet. Calculating. Waiting for his moment.
Then the second half happened.
Second Half: Shai Time
Whatever head coach Mark Daigneault said in the locker room at halftime, it worked. The Thunder came out with renewed energy, and Shai flipped the switch.
He scored 20 of his 30 points in the second half, and did it with signature efficiency and flair: floaters in traffic, stop-on-a-dime mid-range jumpers, and fearless drives to the rim through contact. No matter how many defenders Minnesota threw at him, Shai found answers.
It wasn’t just scoring—it was leadership. Every time Minnesota made a push, every time Edwards tried to ignite a run, Shai responded. Whether it was a dagger jumper with the shot clock winding down or a perfectly timed assist to a cutting Holmgren, he kept OKC in control.
And the Timberwolves had no counter.
Supporting Cast Stepping Up
Shai was the star, but the Thunder’s strength all season has been their depth and togetherness—and Game 1 was no different.
- Chet Holmgren was crucial on both ends, finishing with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He altered countless shots and held his own against Gobert and Towns.
- Jalen Williams added 18 points and played key minutes at point forward, relieving pressure from Shai and attacking off the bounce.
- Lu Dort made life tough for Anthony Edwards, who shot just 9-of-22 from the field. Dort’s physical defense and timely corner threes proved invaluable.
- Josh Giddey, though quiet in the box score, moved the ball well and brought energy in transition.
This was a team win, with every rotation player contributing to the final result.
Timberwolves Falter Late
Give credit to Minnesota—they came in confident and ready. Edwards was electric early, scoring 14 in the first half and flashing his usual blend of strength and speed. Karl-Anthony Towns and Gobert combined for 30 points and 22 rebounds, and Mike Conley gave them steady veteran minutes.
But in the second half, the Wolves lost their grip.
They committed six turnovers in the fourth quarter alone. Their offense grew stagnant, too often relying on Edwards to create against double teams. When OKC tightened the screws defensively, Minnesota had no backup plan. The threes stopped falling, the crowd quieted, and the Thunder ran away with it.
It’s a tough pill to swallow for a team that just took out the defending champion Nuggets—but also a wake-up call. Against OKC, you can’t afford to relax. They’re young, yes—but they’re fearless.
What Makes Shai Special
In a league full of highlight machines, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is different. He doesn’t overpower you with speed. He doesn’t rely on volume threes. Instead, he lulls defenses to sleep with pace and patience, then breaks them down with masterful footwork and body control.
Game 1 was a clinic in composure under pressure. With every possession magnified, Shai never forced the moment. He let the game come to him, took what the defense gave, and dominated with subtle brilliance.
That’s why he’s a top-five MVP finalist, and why the Thunder are two wins from the NBA Finals.
Looking Ahead: Game 2
The Thunder now hold a 1–0 lead and home-court advantage, but they know the job’s far from finished. Minnesota will adjust—expect more traps, more ball denial, and maybe even more physicality thrown at Shai.
But OKC has proven all season they’re more than ready for the moment. Their youth isn’t a weakness—it’s their fuel.
Game 2 is set to be another war. But if Shai Gilgeous-Alexander keeps playing like this?
⚔️ The Thunder might just be marching toward a Finals appearance.
