The Oklahoma City Thunder have won a championship, posted the NBA’s best record and locked up their stars. That is the foundation of a possible dynasty. But last season’s Game 7 loss showed how quickly a rival can catch them. Here is the case for and against years of dominance.
What They Have Already Done
The Thunder won the 2025 title by beating the Indiana Pacers 4-3 in the Finals. In 2025-26 they went 64-18, the best record in the league, while ranking fifth in scoring and second in points allowed. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won his second straight MVP, averaging 31.1 points.
A Core Locked In
Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren all signed maximum contract extensions days before the championship parade. ESPN notes that Oklahoma City also kept center Isaiah Hartenstein and guard Kenrich Williams, and holds two picks in the top 20 after an offseason spent managing costs. A young, secure group is the strongest argument for long-term success.
The Spurs Problem
San Antonio beat the Thunder 4-3 in the Western Conference finals, winning Game 7 in Oklahoma City, 111-103. ESPN described the Spurs as a rival with a younger and, in that series, better star trio. Holmgren was largely invisible, and Jalen Williams was hampered by a hamstring injury. Our look at Victor Wembanyama’s MVP case shows why the Spurs are a long-term threat.
The Repeat Problem
The NBA has had a different champion for eight straight seasons, and the Thunder were trying to be the first repeat winner in eight seasons. The league’s parity, along with the cost of keeping three max players, makes sustained dominance difficult. The New York Knicks won the 2026 title.
The Verdict
The Thunder have the ingredients for years of contention, and they opened 2026-27 with a 116-104 win over the Spurs. But “dominate” is a high bar in a league without repeat champions. Check the standings as the season unfolds.
Sources: ESPN (offseason), ESPN (playoffs), Basketball Reference, NPR.