Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 34 points to help the Oklahoma City Thunder win Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. After losing Game 1 in the final seconds, the Thunder responded strongly with a 123-107 victory at home to even the series.
Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, had scored 38 points in the first game and continued his great form in Game 2. He led Oklahoma City once again, with five Thunder players scoring in double digits to help seal the important win.
Alex Caruso helped support Gilgeous-Alexander by scoring 20 points off the bench, hitting four three-pointers. Aaron Wiggins also added 18 points, making five of his eight shots from beyond the arc.
Indiana’s star player, Tyrese Haliburton, had a tough game. He gave away five turnovers and was held to just 17 points due to stronger defense from Oklahoma City.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said the Thunder’s better defense was the key to their victory.
“We know that stopping them is the main thing. They have a strong offense,” said the Canadian player. “They play fast and score a lot. If we don’t defend well, we’ll spend the whole game chasing them, and that’s how they can win.”
Gilgeous-Alexander also mentioned how the Thunder quickly moved on after losing the first game.
“Basketball is full of ups and downs,” he said. “In a series like this, the team that stays calm and keeps learning will come out on top.”