The New Age Thunder: How Oklahoma City Built The NBA’s Most Connected and Confident Contender

When we think of the Oklahoma City Thunder, currently the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, we don’t just picture a dominant basketball team. We also envision towels draped over Nick Gallo’s shoulders, a Thunder warm-up jacket zipped up to his chin, and a custom-made T-shirt featuring Gallo’s face front and center. It’s the lighthearted chaos of postgame interviews, with barking in the background, teammates chiming in mid-question, and the ever-growing collection of viral clips that the team seems to create effortlessly.

This team has become the embodiment of NBA culture in 2024: funny, self-aware, and unapologetically themselves. They approach social media challenges with the same energy they bring to fourth-quarter possessions. Whether it’s a locker room skit or a courtside viral moment, the Thunder have mastered the art of “clip farming.” Yet, behind every meme-worthy moment is a squad that is serious about one thing: winning.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, now dubbed as “Mr. Consistent,” has been a cornerstone for this young team, solidifying his status as an MVP contender. However, beyond Shai’s brilliance lies a team built on chemistry, humility, and trust. They may be young, but they are fearless, focused, and ready to make a deep run in this year’s NBA Playoffs.

In the lead-up to the Playoffs, Aaron Wiggins and Jaylin Williams spoke with Forbes.com and other select media about what sets the Oklahoma City Thunder apart. This team embodies a rare combination of on-court dominance, off-court authenticity, and a culture-driven identity that is redefining success in the modern NBA.

The Oklahoma City Thunder didn’t just meet expectations this season; they redefined them. With the youngest roster in the league and a No. 1 seed to show for it, the Thunder have emerged as the most exciting surprise in the NBA, showcasing poise, personality, and a fresh approach to winning.

However, for the Thunder, success extends beyond just their record. It’s about the joy they bring to the game, the chemistry among teammates, and their deep belief in one another.

“I think it’s just how connected we are as a team,” said Aaron Wiggins who averaged 12.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game this season, shooting an efficient 48.8% from the field. “We have a group of guys who are committed to doing the right things and playing the right way. When we’re out there on the court, we’re having fun. The coaches are having fun too. It creates a positive environment. And when everyone enjoys playing the game together, that’s when you’re going to be at your best.”

Teammate Jaylin Williams echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the Thunder’s camaraderie off the court is just as important as what happens on it. Williams, serving as a versatile forward, posted averages of 5.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, while shooting 43.9% from the field. “Our chemistry comes from caring about each other off the court. That connection makes it easier to play for one another. Fans can see that we play together, we’re adaptable, and we enjoy the moment.”

And fans have noticed. Whether through fast breaks or TikTok videos, this team has a unique way of drawing people in. “We’re just being ourselves,” Wiggins said with a smile. “We joke around, participate in TikTok trends, and are active on Instagram, but when it’s time to focus, we know how to switch gears. At the end of the day, we’re human, and that relatability means something to the fans.”

The blend of authenticity and competitiveness sets this group apart, reflecting a generational shift in the NBA.

“It’s a new age,” Wiggins stated. “There’s a lot of youth in the league, and with that comes personality. Players are building their brands and expressing themselves. However, that doesn’t mean we don’t compete; it means we’re redefining what competitiveness looks like.”

Now, with their playoff matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies set, the Thunder are ready for the next test in their evolution, and they’re embracing it.

OKC enters the series with full confidence after sweeping Memphis 4–0 during the regular season. Over those four games, the Thunder averaged 125 points per game, shooting 48.1% from the field and 39.2% from beyond the arc. Defensively, they held Memphis in check and maintained a +6 turnover differential, which highlights their discipline and ability to capitalize on mistakes. Their dominance was not just about offense; it was about total control on both ends of the court.

“Memphis plays fast and tough. They have players who compete on every possession,” Wiggins said. “We’re not taking them lightly, but we also believe in ourselves. We’ve earned this moment.”

Williams echoed this sentiment, stating, “They’re physical, they crash the boards, and they quickly turn defense into offense. But we’re focused on sticking to our identity, playing Thunder basketball, and trusting the work that got us here.”

While they may be the youngest team in the playoffs, don’t confuse youth with inexperience. Last season’s play-in heartbreak has given them a taste of what it takes, and they’ve carried those lessons throughout the year.

“Every possession matters,” said Williams. “You can’t get too high or too low. You have to stay grounded. We’ve learned to block out the noise—refs, fans, everything—and just focus on being ourselves.”

This level-headedness partly comes from the team’s blend of internal and external leadership. Players like Alex Caruso, the team’s veteran presence and a former champion, have added a layer of maturity.

“AC has been huge for us,” said Williams. “He’s vocal, honest, and holds guys accountable. Whether it’s during film sessions or in the locker room, he’s always sharing his wisdom.”

The heartbeat of this team is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the unbothered superstar who leads with both his performance and demeanour.

“He’s the best player on the best team,” Williams stated confidently. “What people don’t always see is how much he makes things easier for us. He draws double teams, finds open teammates, and still scores 30 points a night.”

Wiggins added, “And he’s not just a scorer. He’s in the top five in steals and leads all guards in blocks. He sets the tone on defense as well. When your leader is that focused on both ends of the court, it becomes contagious.”

So, what keeps this young group grounded as the pressure mounts?

“For me, when I’m feeling pressure, I just try to be myself,” Wiggins explained. “I bring energy, crack jokes, and lighten the mood. That helps all of us stay relaxed.”

“Everyone wants to win,” Williams said. “But over a long season, enjoying the process; practices, the locker room, the flights is what builds a team. We compete hard, but we also smile through it. That’s who we are.”

This is the new age Thunder: a team that knows how to win but refuses to lose sight of themselves in the process. They are growing up in real-time and doing it on their own terms.

As the playoffs begin, one thing is clear: this group isn’t just here for the moment; they are the moment.