Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Explains Shot Selection After Dropping Game 1 to San Antonio
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder lost their first game of the 2026 NBA playoffs on Monday. San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was too much for the defending champions, as he led his team to a 122-115 win in double overtime.
Gilgeous-Alexander was given the Michael Jordan Trophy before tip-off to honor his second consecutive MVP win. Unfortunately for the two-time MVP, his night to remember was spoiled by Wembanyama's strong performance. The Spurs star poured in 41 points and dominated the boards with 24 rebounds.
On top of that, SGA struggled early in the game, and he went 7-for-23 shooting with 24 points. The Thunder star only had four points on 1-for-5 shooting, and his offensive struggles continued in the third quarter. Luckily, he was able to shake it off and had 12 points in the fourth quarter.
After the contest, SGA was asked about his thoughts on his shooting struggles. The four-time All-Star didn't think much about it and said this:
"I just try to take what the defense gives me," Gilgeous-Alexander said.
"I loosened up as the game went on. I was able to find my cracks. Just gotta be better when I get those cracks."
SGA on his shot selection: "I just try to take what the defense gives me." pic.twitter.com/pmEJy2wBTR
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) May 19, 2026
Despite the offensive struggles, the Thunder remained competitive until the end. Other players stepped up to compensate for Gilgeous-Alexander's shooting woes.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Commented on Alex Caruso's 31-Point Outing
The Thunder had to find other ways to hang with the Spurs amid SGA's difficulties. Alex Caruso came off the bench and provided a major boost with his 31 points on 57.1% shooting from deep. Not only did Caruso help carry the team on offense, but he also took the assignment of guarding Wembanyama and provided help defense on other Spurs players.
Gilgeous-Alexander had high praise for the veteran guard, but he was disappointed that the Thunder could not secure the win.
"It was a great game. Sad it went to waste," he said. "But yeah, he played his butt off tonight. Proud of him."
SGA on Alex Caruso's Game 1: "It was a great game. Sad it went to waste." pic.twitter.com/DcjXx8L6ni
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) May 19, 2026
SGA added that he wasn't surprised that Caruso had an outstanding game. He said that he expected that game from the two-time NBA champion, especially since there's a lot at stake in the postseason.
Jalen Williams, who returned after missing six straight games due to a hamstring strain, added 26 points and seven rebounds. However, that wasn't enough for the Thunder, as they trail the series, 1-0. They have a shot to tie the series on Wednesday for Game 2.
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This story was originally published May 19, 2026 at 4:30 AM.