The Oklahoma City Thunder have capped off a spectacular 68-14 regular season, clinching their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, when Kevin Durant was at the helm. Their dominant run culminated in a commanding 30-point victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, with a final score of 124-94. Leading the charge was none other than the league’s MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who delivered a stellar performance of 34 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists on an impressive 56/50/100 shooting split.
Players to win MVP and reach the NBA Finals, last 20 years:
— Kobe Bryant
— LeBron James (2x)
— Stephen Curry (2x)And now, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. pic.twitter.com/40x1pMkawf
— WarriorsMuse (@WarriorsMuse) May 29, 2025
By guiding his team to the Finals in the same year he claimed the MVP award, Shai has etched his name alongside NBA legends Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant—the only players in the last 20 years to achieve this rare feat. This milestone cements his status as a rising superstar and a legitimate contender for the face of the NBA, joining an elite group of the sport’s most iconic figures.
Shai’s leadership has been nothing short of extraordinary throughout the playoffs, but his heroics were equally vital during the regular season. When his second-in-command, Chet Holmgren, was sidelined for nearly two months due to injury, Shai carried the Thunder on his shoulders, steering them to the league’s best record and securing home-court advantage throughout the postseason, including the Finals.
ANOTHER MVP FOR SGA 🏆
Shai dominated in the Western Conference finals to capture his first Magic Johnson Trophy! pic.twitter.com/P9JBBPZOaZ
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 29, 2025
As the Thunder prepare to face the winner of the New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers series, all eyes are on Shai to continue his MVP-caliber performances. With his blend of poise, skill, and clutch play, he’s poised to make a lasting impact on the NBA’s biggest stage.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by their superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, will take the court next Thursday in the NBA Finals, ready to chase the ultimate prize.