Thunder vs Timberwolves: Shai Gigeous-Alexander inspires a thunderous comeback to win Game 1
The Oklahoma City Thunder made a strong start to the Western Conference Finals with a 114-88 win over Minnesota Timberwolves on May 20, 2025. After trailing at half-time, the Thunder changed the game completely with a dominant and well-coordinated second-half performance in front of their home crowd.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 31 points, including 20 after the break. His fourth straight 30+ point game in the playoffs showed just how important he is for OKC. Jalen Williams gave him solid support with 19 points, while Chet Holmgren added 15.
SGA SHINES IN HIS WEST FINALS DEBUT 🌟⛈️ 31 PTS (league-leading 10th 25+ PT game of playoffs)⛈️ 9 AST⛈️ 5 REB⛈️ 3 STLThunder take a 1-0 series lead!! pic.twitter.com/Y8mmTkqPUP
Timberwolves fade in second half
The Timberwolves looked solid in the first two quarters. Julius Randle had a fast start and finished with 28 points. Minnesota were up 48-44 at the break, but they lost control quickly once the second half began.
TEAM EFFORT FOR THE THUNDER IN GAME 1!!!THEY TAKE A 1-0 SERIES LEAD IN THE WEST FINALS ⛈️⛈️ pic.twitter.com/bRfj8lVv7x
Oklahoma City outscored them 70-40 in the final two quarters. Their defense tightened up and forced 17 turnovers, which they turned into 31 points. The Thunder also knocked down 52% of their three-pointers and shot 50% overall, making the most of every chance.
Anthony Edwards was limited to just 18 points and found himself in foul trouble in the fourth quarter. Rudy Gobert also had a tough night, struggling with fouls and only scoring 5 points. Minnesota's shooting let them down, with just 35% from the field and under 30% from deep.
JDUB DOES IT ALL IN GAME 1!!😤 19 PTS😤 8 REB😤 5 AST😤 5 STLA 4x5 for Jalen Williams and a 1-0 series lead for OKC 💪 pic.twitter.com/S6HcwIOtXo
It was a clear message from the Oklahoma City Thunder that they're ready for this high-stake stage. Their speed, ball movement and shot-making in the second half left the Timberwolves chasing shadows. Game 2 is on Thursday (May 22, 2025) in Oklahoma City, and the pressure is now on Minnesota to bounce back.
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