Shai Gilgeous-Alexander points out the ‘secret’ factor that helped the Thunder win – and it wasn’t him.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are one win away from NBA glory, and while much of the spotlight falls on their MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the humble star made sure to redirect the praise. After their pivotal Game 5 win over the Indiana Pacers, Gilgeous-Alexander’s postgame comments revealed the true engine behind the Thunder’s success: teamwork.

In front of a roaring crowd at the Paycom Center, Oklahoma City seized a 120–109 victory, taking a 3–2 series lead in the 2025 NBA Finals. But rather than bask in personal achievements—which included a historic stat line of 31 points, 10 assists, four blocks, and two steals—Shai made it crystal clear: this was about the team.

The MVP That Shares the Credit

After the final buzzer, Shai didn’t run toward the media to talk about his dazzling crossover or deep three. Instead, his first words highlighted the collective:

“Everybody stepped up. We locked in on both ends of the floor. Jalen, Chet, Lu, Josh — they made plays. It was a group win.”

This statement set the tone for the night. Even though Shai became the first player in NBA Finals history to post such a stat line, he stayed grounded in one word: we.

It’s a mindset that defines this Thunder team — young, fearless, and unified.

Jalen Williams Shines Bright

If Game 5 was a coronation for OKC’s rise to elite status, then Jalen Williams was wearing the second crown. The 23-year-old guard erupted for 40 points, a career playoff high, and made crucial baskets in the third and fourth quarters to keep Indiana at bay.

Shai couldn’t contain his pride:

“That’s what J-Dub does. He works like a vet, plays with poise. He earned every one of those 40.”

Williams finished 14-of-25 from the floor and drained multiple clutch free throws. But more importantly, he took pressure off Shai, allowing him to play more freely and orchestrate the offense. In Shai’s eyes, this wasn’t just a breakout — it was a coming-of-age moment for his teammate.

Defense Wins Championships

Much of the talk before Game 5 focused on the Thunder’s offensive struggles in Game 4. But on Monday night, they turned up the defensive heat — something Shai made sure to emphasize.

“Our defense set the tone. We made it tough on them early, forced them to adjust.”

The Thunder forced 23 turnovers, converting them into 32 fast-break points. Lu Dort was relentless in pressuring Tyrese Haliburton, while Chet Holmgren’s rim protection shut down easy interior looks.

Shai’s four blocks also showed his own defensive evolution — proving that he’s more than just a scorer, but also a two-way anchor in clutch situations.

Sharing the Load

Throughout the playoffs, there’s been speculation: could Shai carry this team to a title? The answer in Game 5 was a clear no — and that’s a good thing.

Oklahoma City succeeded because everyone played their role:

• Chet Holmgren added 12 rebounds and 3 key blocks

• Lu Dort hit three timely threes and locked down the perimeter

• Josh Giddey ran second-unit offense and added 7 assists

• Cason Wallace and Aaron Wiggins provided bench energy

Shai knows individual greatness means little without support. That’s why his postgame remarks focused more on cohesion than accolades.

A Rare Finals Feat

That said, Shai’s stat line can’t be ignored. No player had ever notched 30+ points, 10+ assists, 4+ blocks, and 2+ steals in an NBA Finals game until now.

His balance of scoring, facilitating, and defending drew comparisons to all-time greats like Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade. But when asked about the comparison, he just smiled and said:

“I’m just trying to be the best version of myself… and help this team win.”

No ego. No headlines. Just laser focus on the ultimate prize.

The Culture Sam Presti Built

A huge part of OKC’s success lies in their front office strategy. General Manager Sam Presti rebuilt this roster through smart drafting, patience, and a commitment to player development.

The results?

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was acquired via trade and blossomed into an MVP

• Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren were drafted and integrated quickly

• The team leads the league in points off turnovers and has the youngest average age among Finals teams

When Shai praises his teammates, he’s also validating Presti’s long-term plan. This is not just a Finals run — it’s a sustainable foundation.

Game 6: The Door to History

The Thunder now head to Indianapolis for Game 6 on June 19, just one win away from their first NBA title since relocating from Seattle.

Shai made it clear: they’re not celebrating yet.

“It’s not over. We haven’t done anything until we win that fourth game.”

His words are more than soundbites — they’re a warning to Indiana and a rally cry for his team. He knows that closing out a Finals series on the road won’t be easy, especially against a hungry Pacers team that has nothing to lose.

The Road to Leadership

When Shai arrived in OKC, he was seen as a promising guard with potential. Now, just a few seasons later, he’s the MVP and spiritual leader of a Finals team.

He leads by example:

• He stays late after practice

• He watches film with younger teammates

• He gives credit before taking it

In a league dominated by big egos and solo highlight reels, Shai is an anomaly: a superstar who lifts others up.

Player Relationships Matter

Shai’s leadership isn’t confined to game night. He’s built genuine relationships with teammates — and it shows on the court.

• He often takes Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace out for meals to talk strategy

• He mentors Chet Holmgren on physical and mental preparation

• He credits Lu Dort as the “heart of our defense”

That camaraderie translates into trust and chemistry, the very things that win playoff games.

OKC Fans Believe Again

Oklahoma City fans are passionate, and after years of rebuilding, they finally see the light. Game 5 was deafening inside Paycom Center, with fans chanting “MVP!” and “One more win!” in unison.

Shai noticed.

“The fans brought it tonight. We felt it. We feed off that energy.”

For a city that once lost Durant and Westbrook, this Thunder team feels like redemption. It’s homegrown. It’s hungry. And it’s on the verge of something legendary.

Final Thoughts: Shai’s Legacy Just Beginning

Whether OKC wins Game 6 or needs a Game 7, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey is already historic. He’s gone from under-the-radar prospect to MVP, Finals leader, and cultural icon — without losing his humility or hunger.

His Game 5 performance is one for the record books. But his team-first mindset is what makes him truly special.

If the Thunder lift the trophy this week, it won’t just be because of Shai’s brilliance. It’ll be because he helped create a team capable of greatness — and led them there together.