Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander outlined the team’s mindset heading into the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers, stressing internal development, defense, and collective identity as the keys to their postseason success.
“Every practice, every off day, every game day in itself is an opportunity to get better,” Gilgeous-Alexander said when asked about the team’s progress between series. “That’s why we are where we are.”
After closing out the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games, the Thunder will face an Indiana squad that has maintained one of the league’s best records since January.
Gilgeous-Alexander credited the Pacers for staying true to their playing style and tempo. “They play like that no matter the game, no matter the environment, no matter the round or stage,” he said.
He compared defending Tyrese Haliburton to previous matchups with elite scorers like Ja Morant, Nikola Jokic, and Anthony Edwards. “You have to make those guys play in the things that they’re less comfortable doing,” he said.
Asked if the Thunder start game plans from a defensive standpoint, Gilgeous-Alexander was clear: “It’s always defense first. If we’re able to buckle down defensively, we can take care of the offensive side.”
He also acknowledged that the Pacers’ pace is a strength, but said it comes down to asserting their identity. “The team that wins is the team that imposes their will and has their imprint on the game more,” he stated.
The Thunder’s rise has come after multiple 20-win seasons, which Gilgeous-Alexander believes helped establish habits that don’t appear in the box score. “Coach has always been really good on his standard of how we play… and we’ve been able to take strides because of that,” he said.
Veteran influence has played a role as well. Gilgeous-Alexander recalled seeing Alex Caruso’s 2020 championship ring in the locker room and internalizing the mindset it represented. “AC’s message has always been… playing for what we’re trying to achieve and not playing for the moment.”
He also credited the team’s chemistry. “We’ve been as close as you can be as a basketball team,” he said. “It’s something I don’t take for granted.”
When asked about his own emotional control, Gilgeous-Alexander cited a high school coach who helped him understand that leadership requires composure. “I learned just throughout my career… the more you can stay even-keeled, the better off you’ll be.”
He now uses that control as a tool. “I still feel it. I just understand not to let it show and kind of weaponize it for myself,” he added.
Oklahoma City will host Game 1 of the Finals Thursday, marking its first appearance since 2012.
