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3w ago

Oklahoma City Thunder Capture First NBA Title Since 2008

Built on Sam Presti’s multiyear rebuild, fueled by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP performance, the franchise now boasts a trove of future draft picks to sustain its success

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Overview

  • The Thunder completed a six-year rebuild under GM Sam Presti, rising from a 24-win season in 2021-22 to an 84-win campaign and NBA championship in 2024-25.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander secured both regular-season and Finals MVP honors after leading Oklahoma City to a decisive Game 7 victory over the Indiana Pacers.
  • Owner Clay Bennett’s emphasis on organizational stability, combined with Presti’s leadership and coach Mark Daigneault’s continuity, underpinned the team’s culture of patient development.
  • Oklahoma City holds 12 first-round draft picks between 2025 and 2031, giving the franchise flexibility to add talent or trade for established players.
  • Rival executives, including Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr., publicly recognize the Thunder as the team to beat as they prepare to defend their title.