There is more to the youngest top seed in playoff history in the Oklahoma City Thunder.
MVP finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shone in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals series against the Dallas Mavericks, but gave credit to his young teammates who delivered all-season long.
“We have a group of guys that embrace their roles and try to excel,” Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said in Oklahoma City’s 117-95 Game 1 win over the Dallas Mavericks.
?We have a group of guys who embrace their role and try to excel in it.? pic.twitter.com/tF6rbVB0ev
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) May 8, 2024
SGA dropped a near triple-double with a 29-9-9 statline, but the Thunder also relied on big games from rookie Chet Holmgren, who added 19 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks.
[ALSO READ: SGA, Thunder draw first blood against Mavericks in West semis opener]
Jalen Williams struggled with his offense in the first three quarters, but scored 10 of his 18 points in the fourth to help OKC remain unbeaten in the playoffs.
Aaron Wiggins chipped in 16 points in 23 minutes while Lu Dort got most of the work guarding MVP finalist Luka Doncic, who finished with 19 points but shot 6-for-19 shooting and had five turnovers.
“It’s what we’ve been looking like all-year. Every guy’s [has] a role. We’ve made the point to control what we control in our roles, in our effort and energy. Locking in on what our roles are part of that. We try to master our role,” SGA added.
OKC also recorded a playoff-high 29 assists, in which SGA contributed to a personal postseason-high of nine dimes.
“It’s hard to play against defenses that collapse without trying to trust your teammates. I just try to trust them. When there are two on me, I just pass the ball and let them make a play."
Finally, the 25-year-old Canadian spoke about how their off-court chemistry helped develop their bond on-court.
?We put together a team effort tonight on the defensive end.?@NickAGallo catches up with @ChetHolmgren and the squad after Game 1 🎤 pic.twitter.com/2o1gDaapcp
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) May 8, 2024
“It goes hand-and-hand. It makes it easier for us to play for each other and with each other. Off the court, we know, like each and one of our teammates has our back and really cares for our well-being. And in turn, when you just go out there, you’re playing other than yourself.”
Game 2 will be on Friday, May 10, Philippine time.
