OKC Thunder Steal Game 4 Victory Against the Timberwolves, 128-126
In a nail-biting contest, the Oklahoma City Thunder edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves with a final score of 128-126. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's stellar performance, scoring 40 points, led the Thunder to a crucial Game 4 victory on May 26th, 2025. This win gives the Thunder a 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals. Here's a detailed breakdown of the game, key players, and what's next for both teams.
Game Summary
The game, held at Target Center, was officiated by Bill Kennedy, Zach Zarba, James Williams, and Gediminas Petraitis. The Thunder displayed exceptional offensive prowess, shooting 50.5% from the field and an impressive 43.2% from beyond the arc. Their ability to secure offensive rebounds (19) played a significant role in maintaining possession and extending leads. The Timberwolves, despite a strong effort, struggled with turnovers, committing 21 compared to the Thunder's 14. This ultimately hindered their chances of leveling the series.
Key Player Performances
Oklahoma City Thunder:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Leading the charge with 40 points, 9 rebounds, and 10 assists, SGA showcased why he’s considered a top player in the league. His ability to drive to the basket and draw fouls (12-14 from the free-throw line) was instrumental in securing the win.
- Jalen Williams: Williams contributed a significant 34 points, shooting an efficient 13-24 from the field and 6-9 from three-point range. His scoring and perimeter defense were vital for the Thunder.
- Chet Holmgren: Holmgren added 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks. His presence in the paint affected the Timberwolves’ offensive game plan.
Minnesota Timberwolves:
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: Walker had a standout performance with 23 points, shooting 9-15 from the field and 5-8 from three-point range. His scoring off the bench provided a spark for the Timberwolves.
- Jaden McDaniels: McDaniels contributed 22 points and 4 steals, showcasing his two-way ability. However, his impact was limited by foul trouble.
- Anthony Edwards: Edwards struggled, scoring only 16 points on 5-13 shooting. His inability to find his rhythm hurt the Timberwolves' chances of winning.
Team Statistics
Here's a detailed look at the team stats:
| Team | PTS | FG | FG% | 3P | 3P% | FT | FT% | OREB | TREB | AST | PF | STL | TO | BLK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City Thunder | 128 | 48-95 | 50.5% | 16-37 | 43.2% | 16-21 | 76.2% | 19 | 44 | 22 | 22 | 14 | 14 | 5 |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | 126 | 43-84 | 51.2% | 18-41 | 43.9% | 22-28 | 78.6% | 19 | 55 | 30 | 20 | 8 | 21 | 3 |
Individual Player Stats
Detailed stats for key players are essential to understanding their impact on the game. Here’s a breakdown:
Oklahoma City Thunder
- Jalen Williams: 39 MIN, 34 PTS, 13-24 FGM-A, 6-9 3PM-A, 2-2 FTM-A, 2 ORB, 1 DRB, 3 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 3 PF, -2 +/-
- Chet Holmgren: 33:02 MIN, 21 PTS, 9-14 FGM-A, 2-4 3PM-A, 1-2 FTM-A, 4 ORB, 3 DRB, 7 REB, 1 AST, 1 STL, 3 BLK, 1 TO, 2 PF, 2 +/-
- Isaiah Hartenstein: 15:30 MIN, 2 PTS, 1-1 FGM-A, 0-0 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 4 ORB, 2 DRB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 2 PF, 1 +/-
- Luguentz Dort: 30:13 MIN, 4 PTS, 1-3 FGM-A, 1-3 3PM-A, 1-2 FTM-A, 1 ORB, 3 DRB, 4 REB, 0 AST, 2 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 6 PF, 4 +/-
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 40:02 MIN, 40 PTS, 13-30 FGM-A, 2-7 3PM-A, 12-14 FTM-A, 4 ORB, 5 DRB, 9 REB, 10 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 5 TO, 4 PF, 5 +/-
- Jaylin Williams: 47:59 MIN, 0 PTS, 0-0 FGM-A, 0-0 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 0 ORB, 0 DRB, 0 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 0 TO, 0 PF, 0 +/-
- Alex Caruso: 33:27 MIN, 10 PTS, 4-7 FGM-A, 2-5 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 1 ORB, 1 DRB, 2 REB, 1 AST, 2 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 3 PF, 8 +/-
- Kenrich Williams: 12:24 MIN, 5 PTS, 2-3 FGM-A, 1-2 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 0 ORB, 2 DRB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 2 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 0 PF, 1 +/-
- Cason Wallace: 27:56 MIN, 7 PTS, 3-9 FGM-A, 1-5 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 3 ORB, 0 DRB, 3 REB, 3 AST, 2 STL, 1 BLK, 0 TO, 2 PF, 0 +/-
- Isaiah Joe: 08:24 MIN, 5 PTS, 2-4 FGM-A, 1-2 3PM-A, 0-1 FTM-A, 0 ORB, 0 DRB, 0 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 0 PF, -9 +/-
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Jaden McDaniels: 31:07 MIN, 22 PTS, 9-15 FGM-A, 3-6 3PM-A, 1-1 FTM-A, 1 ORB, 3 DRB, 4 REB, 2 AST, 4 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 3 PF, -5 +/-
- Julius Randle: 28:09 MIN, 5 PTS, 1-7 FGM-A, 0-3 3PM-A, 3-4 FTM-A, 3 ORB, 4 DRB, 7 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 5 TO, 2 PF, -2 +/-
- Rudy Gobert: 32:12 MIN, 13 PTS, 5-8 FGM-A, 0-0 3PM-A, 3-6 FTM-A, 7 ORB, 2 DRB, 9 REB, 3 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 2 TO, 2 PF, 4 +/-
- Anthony Edwards: 40:56 MIN, 16 PTS, 5-13 FGM-A, 1-7 3PM-A, 5-7 FTM-A, 1 ORB, 3 DRB, 4 REB, 6 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 5 TO, 3 PF, -3 +/-
- Mike Conley: 19:07 MIN, 6 PTS, 2-8 FGM-A, 2-5 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 0 ORB, 2 DRB, 2 REB, 3 AST, 0 STL, 1 BLK, 1 TO, 0 PF, 2 +/-
- Donte DiVincenzo: 28:19 MIN, 21 PTS, 7-11 FGM-A, 5-8 3PM-A, 2-2 FTM-A, 2 ORB, 1 DRB, 3 REB, 5 AST, 1 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 2 PF, -7 +/-
- Naz Reid: 23:06 MIN, 11 PTS, 3-4 FGM-A, 1-2 3PM-A, 4-4 FTM-A, 3 ORB, 3 DRB, 6 REB, 2 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 2 PF, -5 +/-
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: 29:22 MIN, 23 PTS, 9-15 FGM-A, 5-8 3PM-A, 0-0 FTM-A, 2 ORB, 2 DRB, 4 REB, 6 AST, 2 STL, 0 BLK, 1 TO, 4 PF, 6 +/-
- Terrence Shannon Jr.: 07:39 MIN, 9 PTS, 2-3 FGM-A, 1-2 3PM-A, 4-4 FTM-A, 0 ORB, 2 DRB, 2 REB, 0 AST, 0 STL, 0 BLK, 2 TO, 2 PF, 0 +/-
Highlights from Game 4
Watch all the possessions in the 4th quarter from Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder:
Key Moments
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Dominance: SGA’s consistent scoring and playmaking were on full display. He managed to score crucial baskets in the fourth quarter, maintaining the Thunder’s lead.
- Jalen Williams' Clutch Shots: Williams’ three-pointers, especially in the second half, helped the Thunder keep pace with the Timberwolves’ scoring runs.
- Timberwolves' Turnovers: Minnesota's 21 turnovers proved costly. These turnovers disrupted their offensive flow and provided the Thunder with easy scoring opportunities.
- Defensive Adjustments: The Thunder's defensive adjustments in the final quarter contained Anthony Edwards, limiting his scoring opportunities and forcing tough shots.
Betting Insights
According to sports betting insights, here are a few key points from Game 3, which can inform future bets:
These insights offer a glimpse into public betting behaviors and can be valuable for those looking to place informed bets on upcoming games.
Controversial Call?
Anthony Edwards calls Shai a FAKE MVP - Post Game Interview - Thunder vs Timberwolves - Game 3
Series Outlook
With a commanding 3-1 lead, the Oklahoma City Thunder are now just one win away from advancing to the NBA Finals. Their balanced offense, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, combined with solid defense, has proven to be a tough challenge for the Timberwolves.
The Minnesota Timberwolves face an uphill battle. They need to win three consecutive games against a formidable Thunder team to keep their championship hopes alive. For the Timberwolves to turn the series around, Anthony Edwards needs to rediscover his scoring touch, and the team must reduce turnovers. Additionally, adjustments in their defensive strategy are crucial to containing the Thunder’s dynamic offense.
What's Next?
Game 5 is set to be a pivotal matchup. The Thunder will look to close out the series on their home court, while the Timberwolves will fight to extend their season. Basketball fans can anticipate another intense and closely contested game as both teams leave it all on the court.
To watch the game, refer to the Mashable article on how to live stream Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (Game 4) for free.
Predictions
Based on the game's analysis, here are some predictions for the upcoming games:
- Game Outcome: Given their strong performance and series lead, the Thunder are favored to win Game 5 and close out the series.
- Player Performance: Expect Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to continue his dominant play, potentially scoring over 35 points. Jalen Williams is also likely to play a significant role.
- Betting Angle: Considering the Timberwolves' turnover issues, betting on the Thunder to cover the spread may be a favorable option.
According to GPTSportsWriter.com, the best bet for Game 3 was Oklahoma City Thunder -2.5, and the over/under was under 218.0.
Jersey Challenge
The Thunder's win also marks another successful week in the OKC Thunder Win=Jersey Challenge, with fans proudly showcasing their team spirit.
In conclusion, the Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 4 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves was a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and determination. As the series heads back to Oklahoma City, fans can expect nothing less than an electrifying finish.