The Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder could have taken management of the Western Convention Finals, however it was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s viral second earlier than Sport 2 that had followers buzzing throughout the NBA world. In a extensively shared clip, the 2024-2025 NBA MVP casually signed a fan’s brow whereas strolling into the world, setting off a wave of NBA chatter on-line and proving as soon as once more that he thrives below the brilliant lights — on and off the court docket.
It wasn’t simply the autograph that made headlines — it was the easy confidence of a star totally embracing the highlight. That second captured every part about Gilgeous-Alexander’s evolution, from a promising younger participant to the face of the Thunder and a finalist for the league’s high particular person honor. It was private, humorous, and charismatic — and followers could not get sufficient of the authenticity, swagger, and pleasure he introduced.
Then got here the actual present. Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a masterclass in Sport 2, dropping 38 factors on 12-of-21 capturing, whereas including 8 assists and three steals. His dominant efficiency helped the Thunder safe a 118-103 win over the Minnesota timberwolves, giving Oklahoma Metropolis a 2-0 collection lead within the Western Convention Finals showdown.
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Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren supplied sturdy help with 26 and 22 factors respectively, whereas the Thunder’s protection as soon as once more stifled Minnesota’s rhythm and physicality. OKC appeared poised, centered, and prepared for a Finals run.
From his rookie season with the Clippers to main the Thunder again to the brink of the NBA Finals, Shai’s rise has been meteoric. His regular-season averages of 31.4 factors and 6.5 assists this yr underscores simply how very important he is been to the workforce’s success.
The viral second could have kicked issues off, however it’s Gilgeous-Alexander’s play that continues to command the highlight — and if the Thunder hold can hold taking part in at this tempo, he will likely be signing much more than foreheads in June.