The OKC Thunder don’t have the long, storied history of the Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers, but in just over 15 years of existence, they’ve produced a line of superstars that have helped shape the entire league.
Oklahoma City fans have been spoiled rotten with greatness. From Kevin Durant and James Harden to Russell Westbrook and Paul George, this ball club has consistently rostered some of the biggest names the game has to offer.
Of course, now, after helping the franchise take home their first-ever NBA Championship last season, it may officially be time to anoint their current superstar, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as the greatest player to ever wear a Thunder jersey.
The case for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as Thunder G.O.A.T.
This past season, SGA authored the single greatest individual campaign in Thunder history.
He didn't just win it all, but achieved the NBA's ultimate triple crown in the process, capturing the MVP award, the scoring title, and Finals MVP, while averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5 rebounds per game, on a 51.9/37.5/89.8 shooting splits.
At just 27 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander accomplished everything a superstar can in one legendary season. That historic resume, featuring a championship banner and every major individual honor, is not only on par with those of KD and Russ, but can already be considered superior in several key areas.
Formidable competition throughout Thunder history
Any G.O.A.T. conversation must include the legends who built the standard. Kevin Durant remains the most decorated player in Thunder history on paper, with an MVP, four scoring titles, and six All-Star nods throughout his tenure. Yet, his peak never produced a championship in Oklahoma City, and his departure to Golden State permanently tainted his legacy.
Russell Westbrook, meanwhile, remains the emotional heartbeat of the franchise. His iconic 2017 MVP season, arriving immediately after Durant’s departure, solidified his place as a beloved icon.
His loyalty and relentless drive defined an entire era of Thunder basketball, endearing him to the fanbase forever.
Why SGA stands apart from the rest of Thunder lore
What makes Shai’s case so powerful isn’t just the unprecedented accolades, but, rather, how he embodies the new DNA of Oklahoma City basketball: youth, brotherhood, and, most importantly, winning.
Durant was the best scorer in franchise history, while Westbrook was their most passionate competitor. However, Gilgeous-Alexander is the one who has led the franchise to the promised land, delivering a season for the ages and appearing on pace to champion a dynasty.
The Verdict
The debate, for now, leans decisively in SGA's favor. By delivering OKC’s first championship and completing the triple crown, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has a strong claim to the label of greatest player in Thunder history.
The weight of the greatest single season in franchise history adds enormous gravity to his argument.
It’s a tight race with Westbrook’s profound impact, but in ten years, the argument will likely be settled by the banner hanging in the rafters. The first franchise championship will be remembered even more fondly than the historic triple-double season.
Russell Westbrook deserves immense respect and the No. 2 spot on the totem pole, not just for his 2017 MVP, but for the unbreakable emotional connection he forged with the fanbase.
Kevin Durant’s otherworldly talent is undeniable, but Shai now holds the ultimate tiebreaker. In Oklahoma City, that banner means everything.