Empire State Review Team 
The Oklahoma City Thunder are on the cusp of returning to the NBA Finals for the first time in 13 years after securing a nail-biting 128-126 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. The win on May 26, 2025, gives the Thunder a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series and sets the stage for a potential closeout Game 5 on their home court in Oklahoma City.
Led by an electric performance from All-NBA guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder held off a furious late-game rally by the Timberwolves to protect their narrow lead and seize momentum in the series.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s Star Power Shines
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again proved why he is one of the NBA’s premier superstars, finishing Game 4 with 40 points, 10 assists, and 9 rebounds—just one board shy of a triple-double. He orchestrated the offense with surgical precision and delivered clutch baskets in the fourth quarter to keep Minnesota at bay.
His command of the game, particularly in high-pressure moments, has been a defining factor throughout the series. Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged over 33 points per game in the Western Conference Finals and continues to strengthen his case as a top-five player in the league.
Young Core Continues to Deliver
The Thunder’s youth movement is no longer just promising—it’s dominant. Sophomore forward Jalen Williams chipped in with 34 points in Game 4, flashing elite scoring instincts and versatility. Rookie center Chet Holmgren, who missed last season due to injury, played a pivotal role with 21 points, showcasing his defensive instincts and ability to stretch the floor.
Their emergence has allowed Oklahoma City to spread the offensive load and pose matchup problems for a Timberwolves defense that entered the postseason as one of the league’s most formidable.
Timberwolves Fight But Falter
The Timberwolves, who reached the Western Conference Finals for the first time in two decades, have seen their season pushed to the brink despite valiant efforts from their bench. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, a cousin of Gilgeous-Alexander, led Minnesota with 23 points in a surprising offensive burst off the bench. Jaden McDaniels and Donte DiVincenzo added 22 and 21 points, respectively, keeping Minnesota within striking distance until the final buzzer.
However, costly turnovers haunted the Timberwolves throughout Game 4. The team committed 21 giveaways, many of which led directly to fast-break points for the Thunder. These miscues have become a recurring issue, with head coach Chris Finch emphasizing the need for cleaner execution moving forward.
Anthony Edwards Faces Scrutiny
Minnesota’s rising star Anthony Edwards has struggled to meet expectations in the series. The 22-year-old managed just 15 points in Game 4 and was notably absent during key stretches of the second half. Though widely regarded as the Timberwolves’ future centerpiece, Edwards’ inconsistency has drawn criticism, with some questioning whether he is ready to lead a team deep into the playoffs.
For Minnesota to have any hope of extending the series, Edwards will need to reclaim his aggressive scoring form and take command in Game 5.
Strategic Controversy in Final Seconds
Oklahoma City’s decision to intentionally foul with a three-point lead in the closing seconds sparked considerable debate among analysts and fans. While the tactic is legal and increasingly common, some argue it diminishes the excitement of the game’s final moments and undermines sportsmanship. The NBA has previously considered rule changes to address such scenarios, and this incident may reignite that conversation.
Despite the controversy, the Thunder executed their defensive strategy effectively and sealed the win, leaving little room for doubt about their preparedness and tactical discipline.
Game 5 Looms Large
Game 5 is set for Wednesday night at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder will look to clinch their first Finals berth since 2012. The team’s lone previous Finals appearance came during the Kevin Durant-Russell Westbrook-James Harden era, which fell to LeBron James’ Miami Heat.
Now led by a new generation of stars, the Thunder appear poised to write a fresh chapter in franchise history. With their depth, poise, and star power clicking at the right time, Oklahoma City has all the tools to close out the series and compete for the NBA championship.
The Timberwolves, meanwhile, face a do-or-die scenario and must dig deep to avoid elimination. Whether they can rally behind their young core and silence the Oklahoma City crowd remains to be seen, but Game 5 promises to be a defining moment for both franchises.
