Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey from promising young talent to NBA Finals MVP has reached its peak, as he led the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA championship since relocating from Seattle. The 25-year-old star capped off a stellar postseason run with a 29-point, 12-assist performance in a decisive Game 7 win over the Indiana Pacers, securing a 103-91 victory and the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP trophy.
Originally acquired in the blockbuster trade that sent Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2019, Gilgeous-Alexander has since become the face of a Thunder rebuild that is now a full-fledged success. The team’s development, bolstered by Lu Dort’s defense, Jalen Williams’ versatility, and a healthy Chet Holmgren anchoring the paint, turned Oklahoma City into a title contender.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s Finals performance was dominant from start to finish:
- Game 1: 38 points (in a loss)
- Game 2: Delivered a critical performance to tie the series
- Game 5: Scored 31 points to push the Pacers to the brink
- Game 7: Led the charge with 29 points and 12 assists to close out the title
Already the 2025 NBA regular-season MVP and Western Conference Finals MVP, SGA’s postseason run has solidified his place among the NBA’s elite. The Thunder’s championship marks a new era in the league—one built not on superstar acquisitions, but on patient development and chemistry.
