Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander explains art of drawing fouls for free throws

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has a knack for drawing fouls in many different ways. The Oklahoma City Thunder star explained his approach to pulling off that trait after the Game 1 blowout win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.

Gilgeous-Alexander has firmly risen up the ranks to become one of the top players in the entire league, earning MVP honors in 2025 en route to winning the championship. The star guard evolved over the years as he used his offensive creativity to draw fouls and use free throws as one of the most elite aspects in his playstyle. He went into detail about his way of taking on opponents with that approach after the Game 1 win.

“When you drive the ball a lot, you get fouled a lot just because most of the fouls happen on drives. And I drive the ball a lot, so that probably adds up to it,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.

“When you drive the ball a lot, you get fouled a lot just because most of the fouls happen on drives. And I drive the ball a lot, so that probably adds up to it."

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on what goes into getting to the free throw line pic.twitter.com/R5pfcfNFh1

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How Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder played against Suns

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder will look forward to their title defense after routing the Suns in Game 1.

Oklahoma City torched Phoenix from start to finish. The hosts boasted a 35-20 lead after the first quarter and never looked back. They produced 30 or more points in the first three quarters, something that the Suns failed to keep up with.

Shot selection, ball movement and stocks (steals and blocks) made the difference in this matchup. The Thunder prevailed in all three categories as they made 45% of their shot attempts, created 28 assists and recorded 20 stocks. It was the opposite for the Suns as they converted 35% of their chances, dished out 16 assists and made five stocks.

Three players scored in double-digits for Oklahoma City in the win, including Gilgeous-Alexander. He delivered a stat line of 25 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and two blocks. Jalen Williams came next with 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Chet Holmgren had with 16 points and seven rebounds, while Isaiah Joe and Ajay Mitchell provided nine points each.

The Thunder will look to take a 2-0 series lead when they host the Suns in Game 2. The matchup is set for April 22 at 9:30 p.m. ET.

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