Minneapolis, Minnesota- The Minnesota Timberwolves stormed back into the Western Conference Finals with a commanding 143–101 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3, and the standout story was rookie Terrence Shannon Jr., who delivered a breakout performance under the brightest lights of the NBA Playoffs. Facing a 2–0 series deficit heading into Saturday night’s contest at Target Center, the Timberwolves needed a spark. They got it from both their All-Star leader Anthony Edwards and a fearless first-year player who seized his moment.
Terrence Shannon Jr., the 2023 draft pick out of Illinois, made the most of his limited minutes, scoring 15 points in just 13 minutes off the bench. His impact was felt immediately, injecting energy, pace, and confidence into the Timberwolves’ second unit. Shannon shot an efficient 5-for-8 from the field, including 2-of-4 from three-point range, and added a steal in a well-rounded effort that electrified the Minnesota crowd and earned praise from both teammates and coaches.
“I thought Shannon gave us an incredible boost,” Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said postgame. “He played fearless basketball, didn’t back down from the moment, and helped extend our momentum. That’s what we needed tonight.”
While Anthony Edwards led all scorers with 30 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, it was Shannon’s poise and production in high-pressure minutes that drew significant attention. His performance exemplified the depth and development the Timberwolves have emphasized all season. With veteran guard Mike Conley nursing a minor injury and the bench needing a jolt, Shannon stepped up when it mattered most.
The Timberwolves’ 143 points set a franchise playoff record, as they exploded for 72 first-half points and led by 31 at halftime. It was an offensive masterclass that saw them shoot 57.1% from the floor and 51.3% from beyond the arc. But more than the numbers, it was the tone they set that made the difference. From the opening tip, Minnesota played with urgency and precision, outpacing and outmuscling an Oklahoma City team that looked overwhelmed defensively.
Shannon’s emergence in Game 3 could be a crucial storyline moving forward. With his length, athleticism, and confidence, he gives the Timberwolves another switchable wing defender who can knock down open shots and run the floor. In a series where the Thunder’s depth has often been a weapon, the rookie’s presence might have just evened the scales.
On the other side, Oklahoma City struggled to find rhythm. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had been sensational through the first two games, was held to just 14 points on 5-of-12 shooting, while Jalen Williams added 13. The Thunder were plagued by turnovers, missed assignments, and inconsistent offense, looking rattled in the face of Minnesota’s relentless two-way play.
Game 3 not only gave the Timberwolves new life in the series but also reignited belief among their fanbase. The roaring Target Center crowd embraced Shannon’s emergence, chanting his name during his fourth-quarter stint as the Timberwolves closed out the win. As the youngest player on Minnesota’s playoff roster, Shannon’s confidence and impact on such a stage signal a promising future—and perhaps a pivotal role in the team’s present playoff journey.
Looking ahead to Game 4 on Monday, the Timberwolves will look to even the series behind their renewed depth, heightened defensive intensity, and the continued rise of their rookie revelation. Whether Shannon maintains a similar scoring output remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: he’s no longer just a developmental project. Rookie Terrence Shannon has arrived—and he’s playing winning basketball.
If this performance was a preview of what’s to come, the Timberwolves may have found an X-factor capable of tipping the series. With the Thunder now feeling the pressure, all eyes turn to Monday night, where the next chapter in this thrilling Western Conference Finals will unfold.
