Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Drops 55 Points in Thunder’s Epic Double-OT Win Over Pacers

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a historic performance on Thursday night. The Oklahoma City Thunder superstar scored 55 points against the Indiana Pacers. His incredible effort secured a 141-135 double-overtime road victory in a thrilling NBA Finals rematch.The game was a back-and-forth battle from start to finish. This marks the Thunder’s second consecutive double-overtime game to open the season. According to ESPN, the team is the first in NBA history to achieve this peculiar feat.

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Gilgeous-Alexander was simply unstoppable. He shot 15-for-31 from the field and made 23 of his 26 free throw attempts. He also contributed eight rebounds and five assists in 45 grueling minutes.This was the fifth 50-point game of his career. It tied him with Russell Westbrook for the most in Oklahoma City Thunder history. His 90 total points through two games rank among the best season-opening totals in league history.The game itself was a nail-biter. Neither team ever led by more than seven points. There were 19 ties and 18 lead changes throughout the contest. A total of 70 fouls were called, impacting both teams’ rotations.

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The win is more impressive given the Thunder’s injury report. Key players Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace were all sidelined. Wallace, who played well in the opener, was held out with a minor knee issue.The Pacers also faced significant challenges. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton remains out with a long-term injury. Despite this, Bennedict Mathurin led a spirited effort with 36 points for Indiana. The energy in the building mirrored the intensity of last season’s championship series.The victory solidifies the Thunder’s strong start as they defend their title. Gilgeous-Alexander’s early-season explosion immediately places him in the MVP conversation. His ability to carry the team through two marathon games demonstrates his elite conditioning and skill.

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has sent a clear message to the league with his 55-point eruption. The reigning champions are ready for another grueling campaign. His historic start makes him the undeniable early frontrunner for a second consecutive MVP award.

Info at your fingertips

How many points has Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored this season?

After two games, Gilgeous-Alexander has scored 90 total points. He scored 35 points in the season opener and 55 points in his second game. This is one of the highest two-game totals to start a season in NBA history.

Was this a rematch of the NBA Finals?

Yes, this game was a rematch of last season’s NBA Finals. The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in a seven-game series to win the championship. The atmosphere in Indiana reflected that recent playoff history.

What record did the Thunder set with this win?

The Thunder became the first team in NBA history to start a season with back-to-back double-overtime games. They won both contests, first against the Houston Rockets and then against the Indiana Pacers. It is a testament to the team’s endurance.

Who was missing from the Thunder’s lineup?

The Thunder were without three key players: Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace. Their absence made Gilgeous-Alexander’s high-scoring performance even more critical for the team’s success. Their return will provide a major boost.

How does this performance affect the MVP race?

Scoring 55 points in a dramatic win immediately positions Gilgeous-Alexander as a top MVP candidate. Repeating as MVP is a rare achievement in the modern NBA. His incredible start puts him in a strong position to contend for the award again.