In an electrifying encounter that marked the start of the NBA Western Conference Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder decisively defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves, with a final score of 114-88. The game, played at the Paycom Center, saw the Thunder take the lead in the best-of-seven series, moving closer to the Finals.
Shai Gilgeous Alexander leads the Thunder offense
Shai Gilgeous Alexander was the key figure of the match, scoring 20 of his 31 points in the second half. Despite a slow start, Alexander demonstrated his resilience, finishing the game with an impressive performance that included five rebounds, nine assists, and three steals.
Jalen Williams also had an outstanding performance, contributing 19 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and five steals. Chet Holmgren contributed 15 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, solidifying the Thunder’s offense.
The Oklahoma City team demonstrated their accuracy from the three-point line, making eleven of 21 attempts, while the Timberwolves recorded 15 three-pointers out of 51 attempts.
The Wolves fight, but fail to keep up the pace
On the Timberwolves’ side, Julius Randle led the attack in the first half with 20 points, but his performance declined in the second half. Anthony Edwards, despite suffering an ankle injury, managed 18 points, nine rebounds, and three assists.
Rudy Gobert had a discreet performance, with only two points and three rebounds. The Timberwolves, who started the game with confidence, saw their initial lead vanish as the game progressed.
Minnesota’s defense initially limited Gilgeous-Alexander, but the Thunder found a way to overcome this barrier, especially in the second half.
Thursday’s game will be again at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
