NBA Reacts to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Historic Game
NBA Reacts to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Historic Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, as well as much of the nation, were shocked in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The Thunder took a 15-point lead early in the fourth quarter of that contest, only to fall apart and allow the Indiana Pacers to mount a comeback that was capped by Tyrese Haliburton's game-winning shot.
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But in Game 2, the Thunder returned to form and made a sizable statement. They won, 123-107, to tie the best-of-seven series at one game apiece, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as usual, led the way.
He scored 34 points, to go along with eight assists, five rebounds, four steals and one block. It was his 11th game in this year's playoffs with at least 30 points and five assists, which tied a league record.
He's tied with Michael Jordan and LeBron James, the only other players to ever accomplish that feat.
Gilgeous-Alexander was named the NBA MVP recently after averaging a league-high 32.7 points a game during the regular season. He's much more than just a gunner -- he shot 51.9% from the field and 37.5% from 3-point range during the regular season, and he has a refined skill set offensively from all three levels.
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If America didn't previously notice his greatness or doubted that he's worthy of being the league MVP, it has noticed and acknowledged his greatness by now.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) makes a free throw as Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) looks on during game one of the 2025 NBA Finals.© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Still, Game 2 was a team win for Oklahoma City. The team went on a 19-2 run in the second quarter to take control, and unlike in Game 1, the Thunder never relinquished control.
Super sub Alex Caruso, who isn't known for his offense, scored 20 points off the bench, and reserve Aaron Wiggins chipped in 18 points.
As has been the case all season long, Oklahoma City won most prominently with defense. It held the high-scoring, fast-breaking Pacers to just 45.1% overall shooting while yielding only nine fast-break points.
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Related: Magic Johnson Brings Back NBA Playoffs Claim After Pacers' Win
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
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