Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Late Game Brilliance Powers Thunder to Victory
The Phoenix Suns put up a fierce fight, refusing to back down even when the Oklahoma City Thunder pushed ahead with a commanding 15-point lead. In the third quarter, the Thunder launched a 16-5 run, a surge that usually signals a decisive shift in momentum. However, the Suns countered with grit and determination, responding with an 18-6 run of their own that brought them within a point of reclaiming the lead.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s Fourth Quarter Surge
In a surprising twist, the Thunder’s superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was called upon to enter the game during the fourth quarter—a rarity for him this season. Early on, the reigning MVP struggled to find his rhythm. He started the game with just four points on a dismal 1-for-6 shooting from the field, with all attempts coming from inside the arc, though he did sink both of his free throws. At halftime, Gilgeous-Alexander had managed to tally 12 points, three assists, and a rebound while shooting 36%.
But the narrative changed as the game progressed. After a strong third quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander returned to the court for the final frame, where he showcased his elite scoring ability. Over the last seven minutes, he erupted for 15 points, dishing out two assists and recording a steal, while missing only one shot. His performance was nothing short of spectacular—hitting 4-of-5 shots from the field, including two three-pointers that electrified the crowd.
An Emotional Display
As the game intensified, Gilgeous-Alexander let his emotions flow freely, a stark contrast to his typically composed demeanor. After nailing a step-back triple and a sidestep three-pointer, he celebrated with fervor, beating his chest and shouting towards the Thunder bench while the Suns methodically advanced the ball down the court. This newfound display of emotion, as he later explained, stems from a passion for the game: “Nah, just excitement sometimes. Just getting lost in the competition showing a little bit of emotion. Nothing driving it though. Just having fun out there.”
The Thunder’s star finished the contest with an impressive stat line: 37 points, three rebounds, eight assists, and a steal in 36 minutes, boasting a shooting percentage of 50% from the floor and an impressive 60% from three-point range, in addition to a stellar 14-for-17 at the free-throw line.
Clutch Performance and League Leadership
Gilgeous-Alexander has carved out a niche as one of the NBA’s premier closers. He currently leads the league in clutch-time scoring, averaging 9.4 points per game in high-pressure situations and hitting 50% of his shots in those moments. Alongside this, he contributes an assist and holds a +6 rating, ranking sixth in the NBA, though two of his Thunder teammates, Chet Holmgren and Lu Dort, sit above him.
The Thunder have engaged in the sixth-most clutch-time games in the league, with a total of 48, underscoring Gilgeous-Alexander’s critical role in their success. As the Oklahoma City Thunder continue to thrive, his contributions are a testament to why he remains one of the best closers in the game today, solidifying their 19-1 record with his remarkable late-game performance.
