Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander strung together a masterclass performance on the court, scoring 38 points. His superhuman efforts helped the team escape with a blowout win, taking a 2-0 series advantage. He’d done the impossible just one day after being crowned the National Basketball Association’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). This achievement undoubtedly cemented him as one of the top talents in the entire league.
On the court that night at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Gilgeous-Alexander was in the zone. It was evident on the scoreboard with a +19 on the scoreboard and in the statbook with scoring points, assists with eight and steals with three. On offense, he exhibited an offensive mastery by scoring on 12 of his 21 field goal attempts. On top of that, he proved unstoppable at the charity stripe, making 13 of 15 attempts.
The first half was an excellent display of Gilgeous-Alexander’s skill when faced with the pressure. He scored 19 points before the intermission, capped by a huge 3-pointer with only 16 seconds left on the clock. This basket gave Oklahoma City a 58-50 advantage as they neared the half’s conclusion. That was a watershed play that really set the tone for the wild second half.
Before the game commenced, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver presented Gilgeous-Alexander with his MVP trophy in a ceremony that highlighted his recent accolades. That honor seemed to invigorate him, as he dominated the pace of play, dictating how the game unfolded and carrying his team with confidence.
As the game moved out of the half and into the third quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander still looked like a star in the making. He just drove to the paint and then turned a prescription bottle cap shot (look it up) while being fouled by his first cousin no less, Nickeil Alexander-Walker. This spectacular basket showcased his amazing talent. It cranked up the drama of the series, fueling a cross-city rivalry that galvanized players and fans.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s contributions extended beyond just scoring. During the games, his leadership on the court showed as he set up plays for his teammates and created opportunities for them to score. He trickily drew fouls, allowing him to capitalize off of free throws. With just three ticks remaining in the contest, he drilled a pair of foul shots, giving Oklahoma City the 73-64 edge.
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