Thunder Advance to NBA Finals, Gilgeous-Alexander Named MVP

The Oklahoma City Thunder advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012 after a decisive 124-94 Game 5 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, clinching the Western Conference Finals 4-1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named Western Conference Finals MVP, joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James as the only players with 30+ points and 5+ assists in at least 10 single-postseason games. Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged nearly 30 points per game in the playoffs and delivered standout performances, especially when co-star Chet Holmgren was sidelined. Jalen Williams also played a key role, highlighted by a 34-point effort in Game 4 and his growth as a primary contributor. The Thunder's defensive efforts were crucial in limiting Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards and building early leads. Oklahoma City will have home-court advantage in the NBA Finals, facing the winner of the Indiana Pacers vs. New York Knicks series.