The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a critical win in Game 3 of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 143–101 to stay alive in the series, now trailing 2–1. The blowout victory not only kept their playoff hopes alive but also marked a historic moment, setting a new franchise record for most points scored in a postseason game.
It was a complete performance from Minnesota on both ends of the floor. The Timberwolves played with pace, poise, and purpose, while the Thunder struggled to respond. The offense flowed seamlessly, and the defensive intensity overwhelmed Oklahoma City from the opening tip.
Six Timberwolves players finished in double figures, showcasing the team’s depth and balance. Anthony Edwards led the charge with 30 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Off the bench, rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. delivered a standout performance, scoring 15 points and outproducing Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the process.
One of the key adjustments came in how Minnesota defended Gilgeous-Alexander. After dominating the first two games, the NBA All-Star was held to just 14 points on 4-for-13 shooting in Game 3. Perhaps most notably, he only made it to the free-throw line four times—far below his usual average.
Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball to the basket around Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter at Paycom Center on February 24, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Finch reveals keys to the blowout
Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch praised his team’s aggressiveness and energy in the statement win. He highlighted their ability to force turnovers and generate early momentum as major factors in their Game 3 turnaround.
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“Certainly, we were able to get out and play fast compared to the first two games in the series,” Finch said. “We got some turnovers and made some momentum plays early that got us going.”
“I mean, you know, like I said, we just were more aggressive everywhere,” Finch continued. “I thought we were a little cleaner around [Shai], didn’t foul, just our competitiveness was at an all-time high. He’s a phenomenal player. He’s not going to have many nights like this. So we feel fortunate for that, and we’ll move on to Monday.”
Edwards stays grounded, praises Thunder
Despite the dominant performance, Anthony Edwards made it clear the Timberwolves aren’t celebrating just yet. The 23-year-old emphasized the need for continued focus, calling Oklahoma City “the best team in the NBA.”
“We’re still down,” Edwards said after the game. “It’s just one win. Can’t get too high on it. Don’t get too low. Just got to try to win another one. This team, they’re the best in the NBA. So we got to be able to beat them more than one time, and it’s going to be tough.” With Game 4 approaching, the Timberwolves know the job is far from finished—but Saturday night’s blowout may be the spark they need to truly shift the series.
