Shai Gilgeous-Alexander trusts his work despite shooting struggles, according to The Oklahoman. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard prepares for a crucial Game 7 against the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Western Conference Finals, facing pressure after a disappointing performance in Game 6.
What happened
During a press conference ahead of the decisive match, Gilgeous-Alexander admitted to feeling physical fatigue after the Thunder’s 118-91 loss to the Spurs on May 28, 2026. “I’m good,” he asserted, ready for what he termed the “biggest game of my career.” The stakes are high, with his team’s journey to the NBA Finals hanging in the balance.
Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 24.3 points with a shooting percentage of 37.9% during this playoff series. He noted that he has faced exceptional defensive efforts from the Spurs, particularly from rookie star Victor Wembanyama and guard Stephon Castle. “A lot of the shots that I’m shooting… feel good. They’re just not going in,” Gilgeous-Alexander said, reflecting on his difficulty finding success from the floor.
Why it matters
The outcome of the Game 7 match will determine which team advances to the NBA Finals. For the Thunder, securing a spot in the Finals is crucial not only for team morale but also for the franchise’s future. Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance will significantly influence the game, requiring him to overcome his recent struggles to guide his team forward.
Background
On May 20, 2026, the Thunder faced the Spurs in Game 5, winning that matchup and taking a 3-2 lead in the series. However, that advantage crumbled in Game 6, forcing a winner-take-all scenario. The Thunder must regroup after their lackluster performance in Game 6, where Gilgeous-Alexander scored only 15 points on 6-for-18 shooting.
What’s next
Game 7 is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT on May 29, 2026, at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The Thunder will aim to make the necessary adjustments to reclaim momentum and secure their spot in the Finals.
