DENVER — Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Jalen Williams went into the postseason knowing there would be games like Friday's 113-104 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets. After losing Game 3, trailing the Nuggets 2-1 in their Western Conference semifinal series, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault says it's a test to become great. It's a challenge he thinks his team is prepared for, heading into Game 4 on Sunday.

Williams shared a similar take during his postgame media availability.

“As a team, we know this s***'s not easy. It's the playoffs, bro. We're playing against a team that's very good. That's won at a high rate. I think we've done a good job understanding it's going to test our conviction,” Williams said. “Not everything is all sunshine and rainbows. There's going to be a lot of ups and downs through it, and it's about how you win these days in between. I think that's what makes a really good team.”

Jalen Williams' 32 points on 11-of-21 shooting led four Thunder starters in double figures, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (18 points), Chet Holmgren (18 points), and Isaiah Hartenstein (10 points).

Mark Daigneault reveals Thunder's biggest challenge after Game 3

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Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault claps in the first half against the Denver Nuggets during game three of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault revealed challenges heading into Game 4. Daigneault believes the Nuggets' fight from Game 3 is a teachable moment for his guys, and can't wait to see how they respond.

“Losses always sting, especially in the playoffs, but we are in the process of becoming a great team, and we’ve checked a lot of boxes in that process,” Daigneault said. “One thing it takes to be a great team is you get taken to the limit in the playoffs. And you got to rise to the challenges you’re confronted with. This team has made a habit of doing that repeatedly. I have full confidence we’ll continue to do that.”

The Nuggets will host the Thunder in Game 4 on Sunday.