Shai Strikes First: Thunder Obliterate Timberwolves to Open West Finals

The Oklahoma City Thunder opened the Western Conference Finals with a dominant 114–88 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves at home, seizing a 1–0 series lead and making a loud statement in front of a packed Paycom Center crowd.

After a tight first half where the Timberwolves led 48–44 at the break, the Thunder completely flipped the script in the third quarter. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 31 points and 9 assists, igniting a 17–2 run that broke the game open. OKC outscored Minnesota 32–18 in the third, then slammed the door with a 38-point fourth quarter.

Minnesota struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 34.9% from the field and committing 19 turnovers. Anthony Edwards finished with 18 points and 9 rebounds, but the Wolves were never able to regain momentum after their early lead slipped away.

Jalen Williams added 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists for the Thunder, while Isaiah Hartenstein provided efficient support off the bench with 12 points on 6-of-8 shooting. Oklahoma City’s defense also stepped up big, recording 13 steals and forcing numerous tough shots.

The Timberwolves will need to regroup quickly as they head into Game 2, scheduled for Thursday night, again in Oklahoma City.

Game Leaders:

OKC: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – 31 PTS, 9 AST, 5 REB MIN: Anthony Edwards – 18 PTS, 9 REB, 3 AST

Team Stats:

FG%: OKC 50.0% | MIN 34.9% 3PT%: OKC 52.4% | MIN 29.4% Turnovers: OKC 15 | MIN 19 Rebounds: OKC 46 | MIN 42