Three years ago, Sam Presti, the general manager for Oklahoma City, made a promise that might have been overlooked. This was likely because the Thunder's performance was very poor at the time, and he used language that was difficult to understand.

After the 2021-22 season, Presti quoted Oklahoma's motto, "Labor omnia vincit." He clarified that this Latin phrase could mean "hard work conquers all" or "slow work conquers all," depending on how he interpreted it.

Regardless, the Thunder's situation remains consistent: their progress, though intentional, has clearly involved significant effort.

They completely overcame all their opponents and difficulties.

The Thunder, who had only won 24 games in the past three years, had a great season, winning 84 games and becoming NBA champions after beating the Indiana Pacers in a tough seven-game NBA Finals. This success should worry other NBA teams. They have their best player, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is the MVP, and all of Oklahoma City’s main players are signed for next season. Also, they have a 2024 lottery pick, Nikola Topic, who didn't play this season because of a knee injury, and the Thunder also have two picks in the top 24 in this year’s draft.

With a youthful lineup – their current starting five averaging just under 26 years old – they possess both audacity and the potential to be perennial contenders.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who recently won MVP, NBA Finals MVP, and the league's scoring title, as well as an NBA championship, stated that the team still has a lot of potential to develop. He highlighted that many players have not yet reached their best performance, which allows for significant individual and team improvement. He expressed great enthusiasm for the team's future, seeing this win as a very good beginning.

Moreover, the timing of them reaching this level of performance is quite favorable.

Many teams have questions as they head into next season, but Oklahoma City is not one of them. Jayson Tatum in Boston, Damian Lillard in Milwaukee, and Tyrese Haliburton in Indiana all have Achilles injuries and are expected to miss most or all of next season. LeBron James of the Angeles Lakers will be starting his 23rd season, and Stephen Curry of Golden State will turn 38 next season. Kevin Durant, who will officially join Houston in the coming weeks after a trade, is beginning his 18th season. Philadelphia's hopes depend on Joel Embiid returning healthy, and New York will be dealing with a new coach.

Oklahoma City appears to possess all the requisite elements for optimal functionality.

"Pacers coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged the team's wealth of talent."

Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren clearly enjoy playing together and supporting each other, without worrying about who gets the credit. Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein have easily adapted to the roles the Thunder needed them to fill. Luguentz Dort is an excellent defender, and he has probably realized that many people don't fully understand how good he is on defense.

It's not only the players who avoid boasting; the leadership also shows a similar reluctance to promote themselves.

Caruso pointed out that nothing is guaranteed in the league, stressing that people often forget how quickly things can change each year. He explained that a team can be transformed at any moment by a trade, an injury, or something else beyond their control. He emphasized that reaching the top of the sport and winning is truly remarkable. He also suggested that it's a bit unrealistic to think you can just easily win every year, and he assured everyone that the team would be ready from day one next season, determined to improve and chase the championship again.

Sam Presti, who created the Thunder's plan, does not often speak in public, and owner Clay Bennett is similar. Coach Mark Daigneault, however, remains calm and guides the team effectively through any difficulties.

Daigneault stated there was no assurance they would finish in the same manner his team did, expressing his strong desire for their success. He was very happy they achieved it and could experience this, highlighting that they earned it because of their dedicated approach, professional conduct, competitive drive, and team-focused attitude.

Oklahoma City's progress is not yet finished; in fact, it's just beginning. Presti has a strong collection of draft picks and the team also has enough financial freedom to add a player if they decide to. Moreover, they now have a championship title to protect.

"Industry overcomes all obstacles, and further endeavors are required."

In 2022, Presti stated that they faced significant challenges and would need to work diligently. He explained that this commitment to hard work was fundamental to the state, the community's history, and the basketball team's identity.