One statistic suggests that the Thunder’s pairing of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams is following a path historically linked to NBA championships.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are making their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams leading the charge.
Comparisons to the Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant era have already started, and OKC now finds itself favoured over the Indiana Pacers to win it all.
While several statistics point to OKC’s edge, there’s one achievement tied to SGA and Jalen Williams that’s only been matched three times in the past 50 years.
SGA and Jalen Williams are doing their best MJ and Pippen impression
Heading into the Finals, both Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams are averaging over 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists per game in the postseason.
That feat has been accomplished by just three other duos over the past half-century. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen were the first, back in 1991.
The only others to do it since then are Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton in 2021, followed by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray in 2023.
In each instance, the Bulls, Bucks, and Nuggets went on to win the title—a promising trend for the Thunder. The pair’s fantastic campaigns are epitomised by statistics.
The OKC Thunder need to finish the job in the NBA Finals
The Thunder are part of NBA history, thanks to a remarkable 2024-25 season, winning 68 games and setting the standard across the league.
And their playoff run has been equally impressive—just four losses so far, with three of those coming against Denver.
OKC and Indiana finished with the best records in the league, but the Thunder hold the edge in star power—and have the season MVP to prove it.
Add to that OKC’s depth, and it’s clear why expectations are high. Indiana won’t be overlooked, but the Thunder have set a new standard this season—and they’ll be expected to deliver on it.
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