The Oklahoma City Thunder have capped off an incredible 2025 NBA season with a championship and a combined 84 wins, mirroring the legendary mark set by Michael Jordan's 1995–96 Chicago Bulls. As fans and analysts draw comparisons between the two historic teams, the question arises: could Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Thunder be the closest the NBA has seen to that iconic Bulls squad?
Matching the Numbers: Thunder Equal Bulls' Win Record
The Oklahoma City Thunder's 2024-25 campaign was nothing short of historic, as they amassed a combined total of 84 victories — 68 in the regular season and 16 in the postseason — matching the legendary 1996-97 Chicago Bulls' win total. This milestone firmly places the Thunder among the NBA's all-time elite teams.
Statistical Parallels Between the Thunder and the '96 Bulls
Both squads demonstrated remarkable balance and dominance on both ends of the floor. The Thunder finished the regular season ranked top five in offensive rating (114.3) and top 1 in defensive rating (105.7), mirroring the 1995-96 Bulls' balanced excellence (offensive rating 115.2, defensive rating 101.8).
Despite the evolution of the game — with a faster pace and increased emphasis on three-point shooting — both teams excelled at controlling tempo, executing efficient ball movement, and applying relentless defensive pressure.
SGA Stats: Finals-Level Performance
Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander elevated his game on the biggest stage, posting Finals averages of 30.3 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game. These numbers place him in rarefied company alongside Michael Jordan, whose Finals averages during the Bulls' championship runs hovered around 33.6 points, 6 assists, and 6 rebounds per game.
Dominance Reflected in Historic Team Stats
- The Thunder's point differential of +11.8 per game across 105 total games (regular season and playoffs) ranks as the fourth-best in NBA history.
- They recorded 12 regular-season wins by 30 points or more, the highest ever in a single season.
- In the playoffs, they secured 4 victories by at least 30 points, setting a new NBA record.
- Defensively, the Thunder led the league by holding opponents to a 43.6% field goal percentage and forcing 17 turnovers per game.
Jaylin Williams and the Rise of Unsung Heroes
While SGA garners the headlines, role players like Jaylin Williams have played a critical part in the Thunder's success. Williams, known for his gritty defence and timely rebounding, stepped up in crucial moments throughout the Finals.
His impact draws comparisons to Dennis Rodman and Luc Longley, players who complemented Jordan's greatness with hustle and chemistry. Alongside Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, Jaylin formed part of a young but remarkably mature core that thrived under pressure.
This supporting cast, much like that of the '96 Bulls, played a vital role in securing the title without overshadowing the star.
A Different Era, but a Similar Blueprint
Of course, context matters. The NBA today is vastly different from what it was in the 1990s. Defensive rules, the three-point revolution, and social media scrutiny all shape how teams are built and remembered.
The Bulls had established stars and championship experience, while this is the Thunder's first major triumph. The question now is whether Oklahoma City can sustain this level and build a lasting legacy.
The Beginning of a New Dynasty?
The Thunder's 2025 season has undeniably earned a place in NBA history. Whether they become the next great dynasty remains to be seen, but the comparisons to Michael Jordan's Bulls are well deserved.
With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way and Jaylin Williams solidifying his place as a key contributor, Oklahoma City might just be building the modern answer to the '96 Chicago Bulls.
Only time will tell if this is a singular high point or the start of a legendary era.
