Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander credited his team’s defensive intensity and the poise of his teammates in closing out a crucial 120-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
Now up 3–2 in the series, Oklahoma City is one win away from its first championship in franchise history.
Speaking postgame, Gilgeous-Alexander pointed to the pivotal fourth-quarter stretch when the Thunder turned a narrow lead into a 15-point cushion. “We were very disruptive defensively,” he said. “Kind of had them on their heels… and then we were able to get out and run, get easy baskets.”
The MVP finished with 31 points, 10 assists, and three steals. But he emphasized the importance of collective effort, highlighting Jalen Williams’ standout night. “Makes the world of a difference when he’s that good,” he said. “He stepped into big plays… he was fearless tonight.”
Williams scored a playoff career-high 40 points on 14-of-25 shooting. Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged the forward’s development and confidence. “From when I saw him play at Summer League, I knew he could be really good in this league,” he noted. “We’re seeing that blossom right before our eyes.”
Asked about his own late-game impact, Gilgeous-Alexander dismissed individual focus. “Just trying to affect winning,” he said. “Play off your instincts… stay in the moment and try to win that possession.”
Oklahoma City’s fourth-quarter surge was fueled by defensive pressure and key takeaways. The Thunder recorded four steals in a five-minute span, sparking a 20–7 run that flipped the game’s momentum for good.
The crowd at Paycom Center also played a role, according to Gilgeous-Alexander. “They are like a wind in our back,” he said. “They help us… they keep us going.”
With Game 6 set for Thursday in Indianapolis, the Thunder are closing in on a championship. When asked about his mindset ahead of the closeout opportunity, Gilgeous-Alexander stayed grounded: “Focus on one thing and that’s winning one more game.”
He also praised veteran guard Alex Caruso’s leadership throughout the playoff run. “He’s the only one on the team with a ring. He knows what it takes… when he speaks, everyone listens.”
