Isaiah Joe Reflects on Thunder’s Journey in NBA Finals

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK—Isaiah “Zai” Joe, a guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is embracing the spotlight as his team competes in the NBA Finals. In an interview with MARCA on June 6, 2025, Joe discussed the exhilarating energy of the playoffs and the Thunder’s resilience following a tough Game 1 loss against the Indiana Pacers.

Joe, 24, is a pivotal player for the Thunder both on and off the court. He expressed pride in being one of the last two teams standing in the league. “It’s been great. To do it with this group? It hits different,” he said. Despite Oklahoma City’s heart-wrenching finish in Game 1, where they squandered a late lead, Joe remains focused on moving forward.

Reflecting on past challenges, Joe noted, “That loss taught us a lot. So this one? It’s just another chance to grow. Forty-eight minutes. That’s the focus now.” The team’s journey has been marked by growth and learning moments, reinforcing their chemistry throughout the season.

After Game 1, the Thunder quickly regrouped, starkly different from their shaky performance against the Pacers. Joe emphasized the importance of mental strength, especially as they head into Game 3 on the road. “They’re gonna feed off the crowd, no doubt. But that’s part of the fun,” he remarked.

The camaraderie within the team has sparked memorable moments during interviews, particularly with Thunder reporter Nick Gallo. “We’re close. When we have fun, it’s real,” Joe shared. His lighthearted spirit extends to the locker room, where he highlights teammate Dillon Jones as the DJ, and takes pride in being the best car owner among players.

The Thunder’s ascent is well documented, as noted by The Athletic, which praised their lack of reliance on superstars, focusing instead on organic relationships among players. Isaiah Joe, while perhaps not the loudest member of the team, has emerged as one of its most relatable figures.

As the series stands tied at 1-1, Oklahoma City is set for a critical Game 3 on Wednesday night. With the Thunder gaining momentum after their convincing Game 2 victory, fans are optimistic about their chances. Joe’s insights and the team’s growth make them a compelling story as they strive for an NBA Championship.