Kofi Inkoom
Monday night wasn’t a stellar performance, but the Oklahoma City Thunder managed to get the job done. They’re now advancing to the Western Conference semifinals for the first time in almost ten years.
In Game 4 against the New Orleans Pelicans, the Thunder secured a 97-89 victory at the Smoothie King Center, completing a clean sweep of the series. This marks the first time the Pelicans have been swept since 2015.
While the Thunder dominated the first three games, Game 4 was a close contest. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded Oklahoma City’s late surge with an 18-2 run, finishing with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Jalen Williams also contributed 24 points.
This win not only signifies OKC’s first series victory since the Durant-Westbrook era but also marks just the second series sweep in franchise history, with the first occurring in 2012 when they reached the Finals – almost 12 years ago.
Furthermore, with their win over the Pelicans, the Thunder now hold the title of the youngest team to win a playoff series in NBA history.
Next up, they’ll await the outcome of the Dallas Mavericks-Los Angeles Clippers series, which is currently tied at two games each.
Having ample time to rest and scout their future opponent, the Thunder are poised for the next challenge. They had a 2-1 record against the Clippers and a 3-1 record against the Mavericks in the regular season.
Despite their youth, the Thunder showed a veteran-like poise in Round 1, earning them a well-deserved sweep.