Thunder clinch first spot
The Oklahoma City Thunder became the first NBA team to clinch a 2026 playoff berth — their 13th postseason appearance since 2010. (news-usa.today) OKC’s late‑season surge included a dominant 121–92 win over the Nets that underscored their momentum heading into the postseason. (x.com)
The Thunder secured the postseason on March 17 with a 113-108 road win over the Orlando Magic; Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points and Chet Holmgren added 20 points and 12 rebounds in that game. (espn.com) That victory extended Oklahoma City’s winning streak to 10 games and, per standings updates, effectively locked the Thunder into a top‑six seed in the Western Conference — meaning no play‑in risk. (bleacherreport.com) Two nights later OKC delivered a 121‑92 rout of the Brooklyn Nets in which Gilgeous‑Alexander shot 8‑for‑9 for 20 points and reserve Jared McCain poured in 26 off the bench. (espn.com) League trackers and analysts note Oklahoma City’s outstanding net rating and top‑tier defensive numbers this season, metrics that underpin the Thunder’s late‑season surge. (bleacherreport.com) The NBA’s SoFi Play‑In Tournament is scheduled to begin April 14 and the playoffs to start April 18, leaving the Thunder a short window for regular‑season tune‑ups before postseason play. (nba.com)
