The Oklahoma City Thunder held their final practice on Saturday, April 19, 2025, before kicking off their Round 1 playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies. The anticipation is palpable as the Thunder prepare to face a familiar foe, having recently learned that the Grizzlies secured their playoff spot by decisively defeating the Dallas Mavericks in the play-in tournament.
Head Coach Mark Daigneault, along with star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and teammate Aaron Wiggins, addressed the media following the practice, sharing insights and expectations for the upcoming series. With the Thunder entering as heavy favorites, their confidence is buoyed by a successful season against Memphis, where they have dominated in previous matchups.
Daigneault began by discussing the Grizzlies' strengths and how they plan to counteract them. "We’ve been watching their games closely, especially the play-in against Dallas. They showed they can be a tough opponent, but we believe in our game plan and our players’ abilities to execute it," he stated. The coach emphasized the importance of staying focused and not underestimating any playoff opponent, regardless of past successes.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been a standout performer for the Thunder this season, conveyed a sense of calm about the upcoming challenge. He remarked, "There are always going to be people who doubt us, but we know what we can do on the court. We’re just going to stick to our game and play Thunder basketball." His confidence radiates through the team, and his leadership will be crucial as they embark on their playoff journey.
Aaron Wiggins, who has been an integral part of the Thunder's rotation, expressed his excitement about returning to the playoff atmosphere in Oklahoma City. "It’s electric in here, and the fans are amazing. We feed off their energy, and I can’t wait to get out there and play for them," Wiggins said, highlighting the importance of home-court advantage. The Thunder have a strong fan base that is known for creating a raucous environment, especially during the playoffs.
The Thunder’s practice included a mix of drills and strategy sessions, focusing on both offensive and defensive sets. As they prepare to face the Grizzlies, the emphasis has been on maintaining their defensive intensity while also exploiting Memphis' defensive weaknesses. The coaching staff has been keen on ensuring that the players are well-prepared and in sync as they head into a series where every possession counts.
As the playoff series approaches, the Thunder are not just looking to win; they aim to make a statement. With a season that has seen them rise to prominence, they are eager to capitalize on their momentum and advance further into the postseason. The players and coaching staff alike are aware of the stakes and are ready to give their all in pursuit of victory.
Looking ahead, the matchup against the Grizzlies is set to be a thrilling contest. The Thunder have shown they can compete at a high level, and fans are hopeful that they will carry their regular-season success into the playoffs. With the first game scheduled for Sunday, April 20, 2025, the Thunder are primed and ready to showcase their skills on the biggest stage.
In summary, the Oklahoma City Thunder are gearing up for an exciting playoff run as they prepare to face the Memphis Grizzlies. With a strong roster, a solid game plan, and the energy of their fans behind them, the Thunder are looking to make a significant impact in the postseason. As they step onto the court, all eyes will be on them to see if they can translate their regular-season success into playoff victories.
