The meteoric rise of the Oklahoma City Thunder

The rise of the Oklahoma City Thunder is one of the most compelling stories in modern NBA history. Users can take advantage of the options for making instant online betting with 1xBet on this squad too.

The franchise relocated from Seattle in 2008, where it had been known as the SuperSonics, and began a new chapter in Oklahoma City. The transition was rocky at first, with the team finishing its inaugural 2008-09 season with a disappointing 23-59 record. However, the seeds of greatness were already planted. Some instant online betting with the 1xBet platform can also be made on other big NBA franchises as well.

Building an extraordinary squad

Under the guidance of general manager Sam Presti, the Thunder built a strong foundation through the NBA Draft. Kevin Durant, selected in 2007 before the move, quickly blossomed into one of the league’s most lethal scorers. In addition to amazing basketball wagers, there is great football betting that can be made at 1xBet on great players of this sport too.

Presti followed up by drafting Russell Westbrook in 2008, James Harden in 2009, and Serge Ibaka that same year. This young, dynamic core formed one of the most exciting teams in basketball.

By the 2009-10 season, the Thunder made their first playoff appearance, signaling their potential. In 2012, they reached the NBA Finals, defeating powerhouse teams like the Lakers and Spurs along the way. Although they fell to the Miami Heat, the Thunder had arrived as a legitimate contender. At 1xBet you can also start betting on decisive instances of both football and basketball too.

Keeping a solid team

However, the core would not stay intact. Harden was traded in 2012, and while Durant and Westbrook kept the team competitive, injuries and tough playoff losses prevented them from reaching the Finals again. In 2016, Durant’s departure to the Golden State Warriors marked a major turning point. Among the basketball betting online available at 1xBet, punters will see that it is also possible to bet on the NBA Finals too.

Westbrook responded with a historic MVP season in 2017, averaging a triple-double. The Thunder attempted to rebuild around him, bringing in stars like Paul George and Carmelo Anthony, but the results were mixed. By 2019, the team shifted toward a full rebuild, trading Westbrook and George for a treasure trove of draft picks.

The story of the Thunder has 3 key elements:

• patience;
• savvy management;
• and the power of building through youth.

With those 3 factors, it is clear that the team will continue to be a tough squad to play against for a long time. That’s certainly another big reason to make online basketball betting on them by becoming a member of the 1xBet platform.