The Oklahoma City Thunder punched their ticket to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012, after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals.
While many have rightfully given the reigning MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, credit for leading the change, NBA legend Jamal Crawford has a different perspective.
In a post on X, the former Sixth Man of the Year credited the Thunder's success to, along with head coach Mark Daigneault.
"Will talk about SGA, will talk about the Thunder's supporting stars, will talk about their defense. (All for good reason)," Crawford posted on X. "But a hidden thing in this, their coach is a SUPERSTAR on the sidelines. Much respect to coach Daigneault."
Will talk about SGA, will talk about the Thunder's supporting stars, and will talk about their defense. ( All for good reason) However, a hidden aspect of this is that their coach is a superstar on the sidelines. Much respect to Coach Daigneault
— 🏁 Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) May 29, 2025
The Thunder finished the regular season with a league-best 68-14 record. Gilgeous-Alexander's brilliance was a major driving factor for the Thunder this season, including his 34-point performance in the closeout game against the Timberwolves.
However, you cannot discredit the job that head coach Mark Daigneault has done with the Thunder since the team brought him in 2020.
He has been able to put the pieces together, blending youth and experience to build a team identity rooted in aggressiveness and defensive intensity, while also focusing on player development.
Jalen Williams emerged as an All-Star this season thanks to his elite two-way play, and Chet Holmgren, despite missing most of the season due to injury, continued his ascension as a defensive force and offensive weapon.
Elsewhere, the Thunder has gotten a big boost from Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein, two players they signed last offseason. They have both been major contributors to their elite defense.
The Thunder will be a force for years to come.