The Oklahoma City Thunder started the playoffs in familiar fashion, sweeping the Phoenix Suns in the first round to move on in the postseason.
The opening-series result matched the start of Oklahoma City’s championship run last season, when the Thunder also advanced through the first round without a loss.
A strong start to the postseason
By closing out Phoenix in four games, Oklahoma City continued the efficient playoff form that defined the beginning of its previous title campaign. The sweep gives the Thunder an early postseason statement while keeping their first-round workload to a minimum.
For the Suns, the defeat ends their playoff run in the opening round, while Oklahoma City advances after controlling the series from start to finish.