Thunderdogs: OKC not playoff favorites for first time in 33 gamesDavid PurdumMay 22, 2026, 12:27 PM ETClose
- Joined ESPN in 2014
- Journalist covering gambling industry since 2008
It has been two years and 33 games since the Oklahoma City Thunder have been underdogs in the playoffs, a streak that puts them in line with the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty of the 1990s.
The Thunder haven’t been underdogs since Game 6 of the 2024 Western Conference semifinals against the Dallas Mavericks, but the Spurs were a 1.5-point favorite entering Friday. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)The Thunder’s streak, however, is in jeopardy Friday against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 of the Western Conference finals.
The Spurs entered Friday as a 1.5-point favorite over Oklahoma City.
Most Consecutive Playoff Games Favored InSince 1990-91
Seasons Team Games2015-16Warriors361995-97Bulls342025-26Thunder33*2016-18Warriors28*Entering Game 3 of Western Conference FinalsIf the line holds, the Thunder will be playoff underdogs for the first time since Game 6 of the 2024 Western Conference semifinals against the Dallas Mavericks.
The Thunder’s 33-game streak is the third-longest since 1990, according to ESPN Research.
The 2015-16 Golden State Warriors own the longest-such streak, having been favored in 36 consecutive playoff games. The Michael Jordan-led Bulls were favored in 34 straight playoff games from 1995-97.
The Thunder were only underdogs in four games this regular season.
The San Antonio-Oklahoma City series is tied 1-1. The Thunder are -150 favorites to win the series at DraftKings Sportsbook, with the Spurs listed at +138.
