Duke Basketball Legend Declares Thunder’s Trio ‘Untouchable’ Amidst Historic Season
In a season marked by unprecedented success, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s dynamic trio—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams—has garnered acclaim from fans and analysts alike. Adding to the chorus of praise, a Duke basketball legend has recently deemed these three players “untouchable,” underscoring their integral role in the Thunder’s ascent to the NBA Finals.
A Season of Milestones
The 2024–25 NBA season has been transformative for the Thunder. Under the guidance of Head Coach Mark Daigneault, the team achieved a franchise-best 68–14 record, clinching the top seed in the Western Conference and securing home-court advantage throughout the playoffs .
Central to this success has been the stellar play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Canadian guard earned the league’s Most Valuable Player award, leading the NBA in scoring with 32.7 points per game and solidifying his status as one of the premier talents in the league .
Complementing Gilgeous-Alexander’s brilliance, rookie center Chet Holmgren has made an immediate impact. After missing the previous season due to injury, Holmgren has showcased his defensive prowess and versatility, averaging 16.5 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. His presence has been pivotal in anchoring the Thunder’s defense .
Jalen Williams, in his sophomore season, has continued his upward trajectory. Averaging 18.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, Williams earned his first All-Star selection and was named to the All-NBA Third Team, further cementing his role as a key contributor .
The ‘Untouchable’ Declaration
The term “untouchable” in NBA parlance signifies players deemed indispensable to a franchise’s future. The Duke basketball legend’s assertion that Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, and Williams fall into this category speaks volumes about their perceived value. While the identity of the legend remains undisclosed, the sentiment reflects a broader consensus within the basketball community regarding the trio’s significance.
This endorsement aligns with observations from other NBA figures. Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green, for instance, has lauded Holmgren as a potential generational talent and praised Williams for his impressive ball-handling and scoring abilities .
Synergy and Chemistry
Beyond individual accolades, the Thunder’s success is rooted in the chemistry among their core players. Holmgren, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Williams have developed a camaraderie that extends off the court. Their collaborations in marketing campaigns and shared experiences have fostered a strong bond, contributing to the team’s cohesive play .
This unity is reminiscent of the Thunder’s earlier era, which featured a young core of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden. The current trio’s potential to emulate or surpass that legacy is a tantalizing prospect for fans and analysts alike .
As the Thunder prepare for their NBA Finals appearance—their first since 2012—the focus remains on maintaining the momentum built throughout the season. With a foundation anchored by Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, and Williams, the franchise is poised for sustained success.
The declaration of these players as “untouchable” not only acknowledges their current contributions but also highlights the organization’s commitment to building around this formidable trio. As the Thunder continue their pursuit of a championship, the basketball world watches with anticipation, recognizing that the team’s future is indeed bright.
