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Chet Holmgren’s Defensive Grit Helps Put Thunder One Win from NBA Championship

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Blayne Gilmer | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 11:38 AM ET

Chet Holmgren is now just one win away from becoming an NBA Champion.

In a pivotal Game 5 of the NBA Finals, Holmgren's relentless effort on the defensive end was a game-changer as the Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 120-109 victory, taking a 3-2 series lead over the Indiana Pacers. While the spotlight often shines on the high-flying dunks and deep threes, it was Holmgren's grit, timing, and presence in the paint that tilted the balance in Oklahoma City's favor.

The former Gonzaga superstar stuffed the stat sheet with 11 rebounds, three blocks, and a steal, nearly notching his third straight double-double in the Finals with 9 points to his name. Despite falling just one bucket short of double figures, Holmgren's fingerprints were all over the win. His ability to protect the rim, control the glass, and anchor OKC's defense gave the Thunder the edge they needed in a physical, high-stakes battle.

Dub may have put it away, but Chet Holmgren's first-half defense was huge in building the 14-point lead: pic.twitter.com/d96enWiTZo
— Lucas Kaplan (@LucasKaplan_) June 17, 2025

What's more, at just 23 years old, Holmgren has already etched his name into NBA playoff history. With 60 career blocks in postseason play, he now ranks third all-time among players age 23 or younger, trailing only Serge Ibaka (124) and the late Kobe Bryant (64). That's elite company, and it's a testament to Holmgren's rare combination of length, instinct, and timing that made him a top draft pick coming out of Spokane.

For Gonzaga fans who followed his collegiate journey with pride, watching Holmgren thrive on the biggest stage in basketball has been nothing short of inspiring. His development from a wiry college phenom into a defensive cornerstone on a championship contender is a testament to the work ethic and poise he displayed even during his days at The Kennel.

Now, with Oklahoma City just one win away from the franchise's first title since 1979 (when they were still the Seattle SuperSonics), Holmgren stands on the verge of history once again. One more lockdown performance, one more effort that frustrates Indiana's attack, and the Zags will have an NBA champion among their proudest alums.

Game 6 awaits. Gonzaga Nation will be watching.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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