Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has added the Western Conference Finals MVP award to his achievements, highlighting his crucial role in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s remarkable season. The Canadian guard led the Thunder with 34 points in a commanding Game 5 victory on Wednesday at the Paycom Center, securing the team’s first trip to the NBA Finals since 2012. His outstanding performance throughout the postseason has made

“Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Western Conference Finals MVP”

a key phrase associated with this breakthrough moment.

The Thunder’s Rebuild Culminates in Historic Success

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s journey to the NBA Finals has been a lengthy and strategic process. In 2019, the franchise began reshaping its future after trading Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers, acquiring Gilgeous-Alexander alongside several draft picks. This pivotal move set the foundation for their current success, including the selection of promising talents like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, who is emerging as the team’s third star.

Additionally, the Thunder traded former lottery pick Josh Giddey for veteran defense specialist Alex Caruso, whose efforts have been vital in the postseason. Holmgren contributed 22 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks in the decisive Game 5, while Williams added 19 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Caruso bolstered the defense with four of the Thunder’s 14 steals and contributed eight points and three assists off the bench.

This Thunder squad made NBA history by winning four postseason games by at least 30 points. They now await their NBA Finals opponent, which will be the winner of the Eastern Conference Finals series between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks. The Pacers currently lead that series 3-1 and are on the verge of closing out the Knicks on Thursday.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s Leadership Drives Thunder’s Rise

Gilgeous-Alexander’s stellar play has been at the heart of Oklahoma City’s ascent to dominance this season. In the clinching Game 5, he shot 14-of-25 from the field and averaged 31.6 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.4 rebounds across the five games against the Minnesota Timberwolves. His performance demonstrated his growth as a top-tier NBA leader and scorer.

Despite his individual accolades, Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized teamwork and gratitude toward his fellow players.

I just want to shout out these fans,

he said after receiving the MVP award.

They’ve been here — a couple of years I got here, and there’s some really dark times in this arena, not fun times, and these fans have been by our side through thick and thin, so we appreciate them, first and foremost.

—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Western Conference Finals MVP

He also credited his teammates for their combined effort in the decisive victory.

And then, of course, I want to thank my teammates,

he added.

Without them, I’m nothing clear as day, I don’t have 124 points by myself. I love these guys to death.

—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Western Conference Finals MVP

Looking Ahead: A Focus on the Ultimate Goal

Although celebrating this milestone, Gilgeous-Alexander maintained a focused and composed outlook regarding the Thunder’s future. Holding back tears, he acknowledged the team’s work is far from over and made it clear celebrations will wait until securing the championship.

Now, with all that being said, this is a step in the right direction, but we have a lot more work to do, and we know that, and that’s what we’re focused on,

Gilgeous-Alexander said.

So let’s buckle up and get ready.

—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Western Conference Finals MVP

At only 26 years old, the guard is entering his prime but remains committed to continual growth, with his sights firmly set on the NBA Finals trophy. Reflecting on his first Finals appearance, Gilgeous-Alexander stated,

I got a lot of growing to do,

and added,

We’ve got a lot of work to do to get to our ultimate goal, and this is not it. So that’s all, that’s all that I’m focused on.

—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Western Conference Finals MVP

With Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership and the Thunder’s talented roster built through careful drafting and trades, Oklahoma City is positioned to be a formidable contender in the upcoming NBA Finals, marking a potentially historic moment for the franchise and its fans.