'F**k that' — Draymond Green tells Oklahoma City Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to block out NBA Finals noise
(Image Source - Getty Images)
When the heat is on during the biggest moments, some players freeze up. But not Draymond Green. After Game 3, where the Indiana Pacers unexpectedly led 2–1, the four-time NBA champ had a straightforward message for Thunder MVP
Shai
Gilgeous‑Alexander — 'F**k that.
Shoot it 35 times.' Green's message? Don't pay attention to the critics analyzing his shot count or foul calls – this is the time to step up, take charge, and guide Oklahoma City back into the series.
Draymond Green insists MVP-level aggression is what will define the Finals
After losing 116-107 in Game 3 and finding themselves behind 2-1 in the series against the Pacers, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a rough outing, scoring merely 24 points and attempting just three shots in the fourth quarter, making only one.
Green shared a candid take on his podcast with Baron Davis and Metta World Peace. — "When I watched that game tonight, I never felt like Shai said, 'I'm taking over this game. I'mma win this game.
''.
The experienced power forward emphasized that SGA shouldn't allow media talk about "shooting too much" or "foul-baiting" to influence his game plan. 'Don't fall into the trap of what the world is saying… F**k that. Yeah, shoot it 35 times.
You gotta go for it!' Green shouted, pushing Shai to get back that confidence he had in his earlier games, especially the 34 points and 8 assists he scored in just 36 minutes during Game 2.
Draymond & Metta tell Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 'SHOOT 35 TIMES' in Thunder-Pacers NBA Finals
In his postgame talk, Gilgeous-Alexander admitted the team had its issues, noting how Indiana's physical play and strong pick-and-roll game messed with OKC's rhythm. He only scored 3 points in the fourth quarter, despite coming in with a mindset to keep the game close.
Still, Green was there to remind him of his MVP credentials—leading the league with 32.7 PPG in 2024–25, outpacing big names like Curry and Giannis, and highlighting why the Thunder need him to step up as a leader.
The Thunder, coming off a franchise-best 68-win season and breaking their previous single-season record of 61 wins, are turning to their star once more. Shai has already scored 38 points in Game 1 and 34 in Game 2 of the Finals, establishing a Finals debut record of 72 points in his first two games.
Now, with everything at stake, Green's message is straightforward: take on the responsibility, prove the naysayers wrong, and unleash that MVP-level performance.
As the series tilts towards the Pacers, the Thunder are counting on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to get back to his bold and fearless style of play. Draymond Green's no-nonsense advice to tune out the media, take your chances, and seize control resonates throughout Oklahoma City.
Also Read:
'Your Spit Should Taste Different' — Tyrese Haliburton jokes as he describes the intensity of playing in the NBA finals
If SGA can lead with confidence and intensity, OKC still has a genuine chance at clinching their first Finals title. Now's the moment to rise to the occasion, ignore the distractions, and let the MVP shine like an MVP should.
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