Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership was evident in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominant 149-106 win over the Denver Nuggets in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals. The Thunder bounced back from a Game 1 loss with a record-breaking performance, tying the series at 1-1.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 34 points in just three quarters, highlighted the team’s intense focus. “We knew what was at stake tonight,” he said. “We came out desperate. We wanted to just take care and control the things that we knew we could, and we did a pretty good job of that, specifically to start the game.” Oklahoma City’s 45-point first quarter helped them build an insurmountable lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the contest.
Reflecting on the game plan, Gilgeous-Alexander explained that the team’s approach was consistent with their prior strategies. “We just executed the game plan at a higher level,” he noted. “We did it with more urgency, physicality, and assertiveness, and it worked in our favor.”
When asked about the physicality and intensity of the game, especially after the skirmish involving Jalen Williams and Russell Westbrook, Gilgeous-Alexander was adamant that the Thunder had maintained control. “We clearly threw the first punch tonight, the first hit, and that’s why we got the start we did,” he said. He also emphasized the need for continued adjustments as the series progresses.
In terms of personal performance, the star guard downplayed any focus on individual success. “I feel the exact same,” said Gilgeous-Alexander, when asked about his improved play in the series. “I try to put myself and my teammates in the best position I can every possession down.”
The MVP finalist also discussed the importance of staying calm under playoff pressure. “It’s still just a game,” he remarked. “I try to remind myself that and remind the team that, no matter what happens, go out there, have fun, and give it your all.”
Despite the Thunder’s commanding performance, Gilgeous-Alexander remains focused on the future. “We can’t just… relish on a win,” he said. “We got to move forward, take the good things from tonight, scratch the bad things, and be a better team come the next game.”
