Thunder GM Sam Presti Emphasizes New Approach for 2025 NBA Title Defense

Oklahoma City Thunder General Manager Sam Presti emphasized the need for humility, discipline, and a fresh mindset as the team prepares to defend its 2025 NBA championship. Despite being favorites to repeat, Presti cautioned against relying on past success, advocating instead for continuous improvement and adaptability, calling the new season a "blank canvas." The Thunder, still one of the youngest teams in the league, will focus on growth and resisting complacency, with Presti stressing that the challenge of winning back-to-back titles is historically difficult. Head coach Mark Daigneault's emphasis on continuous learning and his "0-0 mentality" have been crucial to the team's development and recent success. Presti also highlighted the organization's long-term vision and foundation-building approach, which helped transform the Thunder into a powerhouse featuring stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. Overall, the franchise is determined to avoid a "championship hangover" by turning the page and maintaining focus on process over outcome.