Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: An NBA Title and Basketball Immortality?
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The Oklahoma City Thunder are on the cusp of greatness, just a few games away from hoisting the coveted Larry O'Brien trophy. After a thrilling Game 5 victory against the Indiana Pacers, the Thunder have two opportunities to seize the NBA championship.
Game 6 in Indianapolis on Thursday night presents the first chance to clinch the title. Should the resilient Pacers force a Game 7, the series would return to Oklahoma City, giving the Thunder the chance to celebrate a championship on their home court.
What an NBA Title Means for Sam Presti and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
For Sam Presti: Completion
Following the trades of Paul George and Russell Westbrook in 2019, Thunder GM Sam Presti embarked on a mission to build "the next great Thunder team." He achieved this goal faster than anyone anticipated. Presti has proven himself a team-building mastermind, crafting two championship-caliber teams a decade apart. A championship would be the ultimate validation, signifying a job well done.
For Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Basketball Immortality
At just 26 years old (turning 27 soon), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stands on the verge of basketball immortality. Winning both the MVP award and an NBA title in the same season would place him among legends. Of the previous 14 players to achieve this feat, all were named to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team.
Gilgeous-Alexander's performance this season, both in the regular season and playoffs, has been nothing short of spectacular. An NBA championship would elevate him above even Russell Westbrook in the pantheon of Thunder greats. This could solidify his legacy as one of the best to ever do it.
The pressure is on, but the Thunder and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are ready for the challenge. Will they seize the moment and etch their names in basketball history?