The Oklahoma City Thunder wrote one of the NBA’s most compelling stories last season, storming to a franchise-best 68-14 regular season record, the best in the league and tied for the sixth-best in NBA history.

Leading the charge was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who averaged a league-best 32.7 points per game and collected both the MVP and Finals MVP honors, etching his name among the game’s elite.

The Thunder’s impressive campaign was marked by relentless pace, defensive versatility, and young star power that outclassed most regular season opponents.​

Honest Reflection on Postseason Struggles

Despite their eventual crown, Gilgeous-Alexander shared that the Thunder’s championship run fell short of his own sky-high expectations. “Honestly speaking, I didn’t like the way we won, if that makes sense,” he remarked, pointing to inconsistencies and challenges the team faced as they navigated the postseason.

The Thunder were pushed to seven games by both the Denver Nuggets and Indiana Pacers before ultimately prevailing, with Shai conceding that both he and the team struggled to match their regular season form under the heightened playoff spotlight.

Facing intense defensive schemes from opponents, Shai acknowledged he was not as dominant as in the regular season, despite still averaging close to 30 points per game in the playoffs. His candor highlighted the intense focus and adaptation required for postseason success, as well as his commitment to individual and collective growth.​

The Mindset for a Repeat

Far from being satisfied, Gilgeous-Alexander’s honest assessment has set an invigorating tone for the Thunder’s title defense. He’s made it clear that neither complacency nor nostalgia will define Oklahoma City’s approach, emphasizing unfinished business and an ambition to reach new heights.

This mentality has already translated onto the court, with the Thunder opening their season atop the Western Conference standings and Shai matching his MVP form, averaging 33 points, five rebounds, and six assists early in the new campaign.

As OKC chases back-to-back championships, the blend of self-awareness, youthful hunger, and star leadership from Gilgeous-Alexander ensures the Thunder’s story continues to captivate NBA fans.