Sun May 25 08:57:45 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

The Minnesota Timberwolves dominated the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals, winning 143-101 and reducing the series deficit to 2-1. Anthony Edwards led the way with 30 points, supported by Julius Randle’s 24. Minnesota set a franchise record for playoff points in a game, showcasing superior physicality and energy. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 14 points, struggled significantly.

**News Article:**

**Timberwolves Crush Thunder in Game 3, Cutting Series Deficit**

**MINNEAPOLIS** – The Minnesota Timberwolves roared back into the Western Conference Finals with a resounding 143-101 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night, making the series now 2-1. Anthony Edwards led the charge with a dominant 30-point performance, fueling a Timberwolves team determined to avoid falling into a 3-0 series hole.

Edwards was virtually unstoppable, shooting 12-of-17 from the field, including 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. Julius Randle contributed 24 points as well, helping Minnesota set a new franchise record for points in a playoff game.

“I was super happy about the physicality and energy we brought,” Edwards said post-game.

The Thunder, who had comfortably won the first two games at home, were thoroughly outplayed. MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was held to just 14 points, and the team struggled to match Minnesota’s intensity.

“We got punched in the mouth,” admitted Gilgeous-Alexander. “It’s about responding.”

From the opening tip, the Timberwolves established control, building a commanding 72-41 lead by halftime. Their relentless defense and efficient offense left the Thunder reeling. Minnesota’s dominance was so complete that they led by as many as 45 points late in the fourth quarter.

“They were just much more physical, much sharper, executed better, more forceful on offence,” acknowledged Thunder coach Mark Daigneault.

Game 4 is set for Monday in Minneapolis, where the Timberwolves will look to even the series. The Thunder will need to regroup quickly and rediscover the form that propelled them to the top of the Western Conference during the regular season if they want to take a commanding 3-1 lead back home.

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