The Path: How the Thunder won their first championship, as told by Sam Presti

“When you have success like this, it’s easy to narrate it back and make it seem like it was this great plan.”

— Sam Presti, June 22, 2025OKC’s historic defense had been as disruptive as ever during the Thunder’s Game 7, Finals-clinching victory, but the best deflection of the night may have been by Sam Presti.

The interview was by no means contentious. It was the very beginning of a celebration, after all—one that would stretch long into that night and through the parade a couple of days later. One that the 2025 NBA Draft would sneak up on. One that will continue in the hearts of Thunder fans until—well, we’ll have to let you know. Confetti still covered the court. If you listened closely,…