Gilgeous-Alexander Scores 38, Matching Playoff High in Win

OKLAHOMA CITY: Just a day after being named NBA 2025 MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shone brightly, propelling the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 118-103 triumph over the Minnesota Timberwolves in playoff action.

The Thunder’s victory on Thursday at the Paycom Center gives them a 2-0 advantage in the Western Conference Finals series.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s contribution included 38 points, eight assists, and three rebounds, equalling his playoff career-best with an impressive 12-of-21 shooting record. Jalen Williams also made a significant impact, scoring 26 points, providing five assists, and securing ten rebounds.

Williams lauded Gilgeous-Alexander’s composure and command on the court, highlighting his ability to swiftly recover from errors, which helps maintain the team’s focus and composure.

Team Dynamics

“His ability to move on quickly keeps the team relaxed,” Williams stated. “It puts us in a similar mindset.”

Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged feeling the intensity of the game and initially forcing shots, but he eventually adopted a more controlled strategy.

Adjusting Strategy

“I realized that wasn’t the right approach,” he commented. “I decided to let the game unfold naturally, rely on my teammates, and play through them. I aimed not to force anything but to let the game come to me.”

The Thunder established an early advantage, leading by eight points at halftime, with both quarters ending at 29-25.

Gilgeous-Alexander displayed perfect shooting accuracy in the first quarter, making all three attempts and accumulating eight points in the final 3:18 of the first half.

The third quarter was dominated by Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 11 points during the Thunder’s commanding 35-21 stretch, giving Oklahoma City a substantial lead.

Despite the Timberwolves’ strong performance in the final quarter, where they outscored the Thunder 32-25, it was insufficient to close the gap.

For Minnesota, Anthony Edwards was the top scorer with 32 points, while Jaden McDaniels added 22.

The Thunder are scheduled to play the Timberwolves in Game 3 on Sunday in Minneapolis.