Thunder Triumph Over Celtics, Secure Playoff Spot in Thrilling Showdown

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BOSTON (AP)— The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their playoff position, doing so against a team that they may encounter when the NBA playoffs intensify.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander netted 34 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed 23 points and 15 rebounds, leading the Thunder to a 118-112 victory over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, anticipating a potential clash in the NBA Finals.

“It’s March, not June,” remarked Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault after his team completed a two-game series sweep against the reigning champions. “Our focus is on March.”

Previously, the Thunder triumphed over the Celtics in Oklahoma City on January 5, a game from which Holmgren was sidelined due to injury.

Should they meet again this season, it would only be in the NBA Finals.

“They’ve accomplished what we aim for, and there’s no greater test in the NBA than that,” Gilgeous-Alexander stated. “Facing them is always enjoyable and presents a solid challenge, allowing us to gauge ourselves. I believe we’ve fared well thus far.”

Earning Every Victory

Thunder secures its 12th playoff appearance since 2010, which is the second highest in the NBA ⚡#ThunderUp pic.twitter.com/kI7oo58bYz

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 13, 2025

The Thunder became the second NBA team this season to secure a playoff spot, following Cleveland, who clinched a spot on Friday with one more win. Last year, Oklahoma City confirmed their postseason berth on March 31.

“It shows we’ve improved since last year. In the end, that’s all you can seek,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “We’ve invested the effort, dedicated the time… we’ve taken strides in the right direction. We’ve advanced and checked off a goal earlier than in the previous year, but there’s much more ahead of us.”

The Celtics, who leveraged their 3-point shooting to capture their historic 18th NBA championship last season, established a franchise record by attempting 63 three-pointers on Wednesday, equalling the highest total ever for any NBA team in a regulation match.

“Every game presents a challenge,” said Daigneault, coming off a series split against the 2023 NBA champion Denver Nuggets. “We can’t dictate our opponents, but going up against top-tier teams like this, especially on the road, offers a valuable opportunity for growth. Therefore, we take these matchups seriously.”

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scores 34 points as Oklahoma City improves to 22-1 against Eastern Conference opponents.