sports
‘Last year is over’: Oklahoma City launch title defense as NBA’s parity era faces test
The league hasn’t had a repeat champion since the 2017-18 Warriors. The level-headed, consistent Thunder may be the ones to change that
TL;DR
- The NBA has not had a repeat champion since the Golden State Warriors in 2017-18, indicating a prolonged era of parity.
- The Oklahoma City Thunder are seeking to buck this trend and achieve historic greatness with their title defense.
- The Thunder are the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference for the third consecutive year, a feat only matched by previous dynasties like the Warriors, Celtics, Lakers, and Bulls.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a leading MVP candidate for the second year in a row and has the potential to win consecutive MVP and Finals MVP awards.
- Veteran guard Alex Caruso advises his teammates to stay present and cherish the current team, as repeating is not guaranteed.
- Head coach Mark Daigneault encourages the team to view each season as a new beginning, rather than a 'defense' of a previous title.
- The team's strong chemistry and enjoyment of being around each other are highlighted as key factors in their consistent performance.