The basketball night promises to thrill NBA fans with the clash between Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves. Scheduled for today, May 26, 2025, game 4 of the Western Conference Finals tips off at 9:30 PM Brasília time at the Target Center in Minneapolis. With the Thunder leading the series 2-1, the matchup pits two teams with distinct styles and rising stars against each other. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards are the names to watch.
This pivotal playoff game sees Minnesota aiming to tie the series at home. Local fans pack bars and restaurants near the arena, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The matchup showcases young talent and tactical strategies that could shape the season’s outcome.
- What to expect: A physical game with intense defense and fast transitions.
- Key players: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder, while Edwards drives the Wolves.
- Venue: Target Center, with a capacity of 19,356 fans.
- Broadcast: ESPN, Disney+, and NBA League Pass.
Game time and live broadcast
The game starts at 9:30 PM Brasília time and will be broadcast live on ESPN via cable TV, with pre-game coverage from 9:00 PM. For streaming fans, Disney+ offers the game with Portuguese narration, while the NBA League Pass provides exclusive camera angles and replays. Sports bars in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro also screen the game, drawing crowds of fans. The broadcast includes tactical analysis and player interviews, delivering a complete experience for viewers.
Thunder’s probable lineup
Coached by Mark Daigneault, the Oklahoma City Thunder is expected to stick with the starting lineup that dominated recent games. Based on their performance against the Timberwolves, the team relies on speed and defensive efficiency. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a top scorer in multiple games, is the team’s engine. The probable lineup includes:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (point guard, averaging 32.3 points per game).
- Luguentz Dort (shooting guard, defensive specialist).
- Jalen Williams (small forward, scored 26 points in game 3).
- Chet Holmgren (power forward, Defensive Player of the Year candidate).
- Isaiah Hartenstein (center, strong on rebounds).
Nikola Topic remains the only confirmed absence due to injury. Cason Wallace and Dort, previously under observation, are cleared to play.
Timberwolves’ probable lineup
Under Chris Finch’s leadership, the Timberwolves prioritize stout defense and explosive offense. The team struggled in the first two games but bounced back with a game 3 win at home, led by Anthony Edwards. The probable lineup is:
- Mike Conley (point guard, assist leader).
- Anthony Edwards (shooting guard, averaging 27.9 points).
- Jaden McDaniels (small forward, defensive specialist).
- Julius Randle (power forward, versatile offensively).
- Rudy Gobert (center, three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year).
Rob Dillingham is questionable with an ankle issue. Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert, after minor injuries, are confirmed to play.
Tickets for the game
Tickets for the Target Center matchup are available through the Timberwolves’ official website and Ticketmaster. Prices range from $70 for upper-level seats to $700 for courtside areas. A sold-out crowd of 19,356 is expected, creating a hostile environment for the Thunder. Nearby bars, like Hubert’s Sports Bar, host watch parties with promotions and big screens. The high ticket demand reflects Minneapolis’s passion for basketball, especially in such a crucial game.
City and arena
Minneapolis, known for its harsh winters, is buzzing with playoff excitement. The Target Center, opened in 1990 and renovated in 2017, is the heart of the city’s basketball scene. With a capacity of 19,356, the arena offers a lively atmosphere, enhanced by modern acoustics. Public transportation, including metro and buses, makes access easy, connecting downtown to the venue. Nearby restaurants and hotels see a surge in demand from out-of-town fans.
Weather forecast in Minneapolis
The forecast for the evening of May 26 predicts temperatures between 30°F and 37°F, with partly cloudy skies and a low chance of snow. The indoor game won’t be affected, but fans should bundle up for the cold with coats and warm accessories. The Target Center’s heating ensures comfort during the game. Public transportation operates normally, with metro lines running smoothly.
Game officiating
The NBA assigned Scott Foster as the lead referee, joined by Lauren Holtkamp and Ed Malloy. The experienced trio ensures accuracy in contentious calls, particularly in the paint. The Replay Center will be active for reviews, guaranteeing fair decisions in this high-stakes game. In game 3, Foster required brief medical attention after a collision with Luguentz Dort but is confirmed for tonight. Officiating will be critical in such a physical matchup.
Head-to-head history
The Oklahoma City Thunder holds a 91-47 edge over the Timberwolves in official games. At the Paycom Center, the Thunder is unbeaten in eight straight games against Minnesota, adding pressure on the Wolves to break the streak at home. In the 2025 playoffs, the Thunder won games 1 (114-88) and 2 (118-103), while the Timberwolves took game 3 (102-97). Recent matchups have been competitive, driven by Gilgeous-Alexander and Edwards.
Thunder’s last five games
The Oklahoma City Thunder enters the game on a strong run, dominating in the playoffs. Their last five games, including regular season and postseason, are:
- Win vs. Timberwolves (118-103, 05/24/2025, game 3).
- Win vs. Timberwolves (114-88, 05/20/2025, game 1).
- Win vs. Nuggets (game 7, 05/18/2025).
- Loss vs. Nuggets (game 6, 05/16/2025).
- Win vs. Bucks (regular season, 05/10/2025).
Defensive consistency and Gilgeous-Alexander’s offense are their strengths.
Timberwolves’ last five games
The Timberwolves show resilience but have struggled on the road. Their last five games include:
- Win vs. Thunder (102-97, 05/24/2025, game 3).
- Loss vs. Thunder (118-103, 05/22/2025, game 2).
- Loss vs. Thunder (114-88, 05/20/2025, game 1).
- Win vs. Warriors (regular season, 05/07/2025).
- Win vs. Pelicans (regular season, 12/28/2024).
Their defense, led by Gobert, and Edwards’ leadership are key at home.
Top scorers to watch
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder with 32.3 points per game this season. In game 3, he scored 38 points, showcasing his clutch ability. For the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards averages 27.9 points and led game 3 with 32 points. Other contributors, like Jalen Williams (Thunder) and Julius Randle (Timberwolves), also shine in critical moments.
Fun facts about the matchup
The Thunder-Timberwolves clash brings intriguing tidbits that heighten anticipation:
- Home dominance: The Thunder hasn’t lost to the Wolves at Paycom Center since 2017.
- Edwards’ breakout: The guard dropped 44 points against the Thunder in 2024.
- Stingy defense: Minnesota ranks fourth in the NBA, allowing 108.1 points per game.
- Holmgren’s rise: The Thunder’s center is a Defensive Player of the Year contender.
- Young rivalry: Gilgeous-Alexander and Edwards are tipped as future MVP candidates.
These elements underscore the series’ intensity and the stakes of tonight’s game.
Tactical approaches
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault emphasizes fast transitions and aggressive defense to neutralize Edwards. The team leverages Chet Holmgren’s versatility, blending long-range shooting with paint presence. Meanwhile, Timberwolves’ Chris Finch focuses on perimeter defense to contain Gilgeous-Alexander, with Gobert anchoring rebounds. Minnesota aims to exploit Edwards’ speed and Randle’s versatility to swing the score.
Atmosphere in Minneapolis
Minneapolis transforms the Target Center into a cauldron during the playoffs. Fans flood the streets with Timberwolves flags, and the rivalry with the Thunder galvanizes the community. Promotional events, like concerts and sponsor activations, surround the arena. The city’s basketball passion is palpable, with bars like Hubert’s Sports Bar screening the game for ticketless fans. The atmosphere is set to influence the players’ performance.
Game predictions
Analysts foresee a tight game, with a slight edge to the Timberwolves at home. Minnesota’s defense, led by Gobert, could be the difference, but the Thunder’s momentum from two strong wins looms large. The Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Edwards duel will be pivotal. A close score, like 105-102 for the Wolves, is plausible, per experts. The playoff intensity suggests a game decided in the final minutes.
Stakes of the series
The Western Conference Finals offer a ticket to the NBA Finals, where the winner faces the Eastern Conference champion (Knicks or Pacers). For the Thunder, the series is a chance to cement their rise as a young powerhouse. The Timberwolves chase their first conference title, backed by fervent home support. Game 4 is critical, as a Thunder win could seal their edge, while a Wolves victory keeps the series alive.
Players’ form
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is at his peak, leading the league in scoring for 10 straight games. His ability to deliver in clutch moments is a Thunder asset. Anthony Edwards, meanwhile, thrives in the playoffs, with performances marking him as a future NBA star. Their head-to-head battle is a highlight, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.
Team preparations
The Thunder arrives rested after a two-day break, with practices focused on defensive tweaks. Daigneault stressed maintaining intensity on the road. The Timberwolves used the time to build confidence after their game 3 win. Finch honed strategies to counter the Thunder’s fast-paced attack, particularly in transitions. Both teams are physically and mentally ready for a high-octane clash.
Fan logistics
For those heading to the Target Center, gates open at 6:00 PM local time. NBA League Pass pre-game coverage starts at 8:00 PM, featuring analysis and interviews. Public transportation runs smoothly, and nearby parking costs $15-$30. Fans should arrive early to avoid lines, given the expected full house. The arena experience includes interactive screens and sponsor activations.