SGA vs. KD: U.S. Media Sparks Debate - Who's the True Thunder GOAT?

NBA Playoffs Continue: Thunder Advance to Finals with Dominant Win Over Timberwolves

In today's Western Conference Finals Game 5, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 at home, clinching the series 4-1 to advance to the NBA Finals.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered another stellar performance, playing 33 minutes and 36 seconds, shooting 14-of-25 from the field (including 2-of-4 from three) and a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. He finished with 34 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals, posting a +23 plus/minus. Over the entire series, SGA averaged 31.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game on 46% shooting. Aside from a brief slump in Game 3, his performance was flawless—earning him all 9 votes for Western Conference Finals MVP.

The GOAT Debate: SGA vs. KD

After the game, Hoops sparked a heated discussion on social media, posting a photo of Kevin Durant and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with the question:
"Who is the greatest player in Thunder franchise history?"

The Case for Kevin Durant

• Played 9 seasons with the Thunder (including the 2007-08 Sonics season).

• 2013-14 NBA MVP.

• 5x All-NBA First Team, 4x scoring champion, 7x All-Star.

• Led the Thunder to the 2012 NBA Finals (lost 1-4 to the Heat).

The Case for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

• Currently in his 6th season with the Thunder.

• 2025 NBA MVP, 3x All-NBA First Team, 1x scoring champion, 3x All-Star.

• Led the Thunder to their first Finals appearance in 13 years—with a chance to win the franchise’s first title since 1979.

Who Takes the Crown?

While Durant and SGA are now tied in MVP honors, and SGA has at least matched KD’s Finals run, Durant still holds the edge in longevity and individual accolades. However, if SGA leads the Thunder to a championship this season, the debate might be settled for good.

Another key factor? Fan sentiment. Durant’s 2016 departure to the Warriors left a complicated legacy, while SGA is fully embraced by the Thunder faithful.

So, who’s the Thunder GOAT right now?
Drop your thoughts in the comments! 🏆🔥