Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has arrived—and the world is watching. The 25-year-old superstar delivered another masterful performance in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, scoring 34 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a series-tying win, and in doing so, set an NBA record: the most total points by a player in their first two Finals games. The basketball world is buzzing, and it’s clear—SGA is not just a rising star; he’s already one of the league’s elite.
From Rising Star to Franchise Leader
Coming into the Finals, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was already having an MVP-caliber season. He finished second in MVP voting and was selected to the All-NBA First Team—a huge nod to his all-around excellence. But many still wondered: Could he carry the Thunder on the biggest stage of all?
After dropping 36 points in Game 1, SGA returned with a vengeance in Game 2. Not only did he lead OKC with 34 points, but he also added clutch plays down the stretch, stifling defense, and pure leadership. He now holds 70 points combined across his first two Finals games, breaking the previous record held by Allen Iverson, who scored 71 across his first two Finals appearances in 2001.
For Shai, it wasn’t just about scoring—it was about impact. Every basket felt timely, every drive fearless, every possession controlled. The calmness he brings under pressure is rare for a player making his Finals debut.
Dominating in the Face of Pressure
Game 2 wasn’t just a must-win for the Thunder—it was a defining moment in the series. After losing Game 1 at home, OKC was staring down the prospect of going down 0-2 before heading on the road. The pressure was real, and the moment was massive.
But Shai didn’t flinch.
He opened the game aggressively, slicing through defenders and getting to his mid-range sweet spots. His footwork was flawless. His decision-making—on point. Time and again, he got to the rim, drew fouls, and kept the scoreboard moving for Oklahoma City. He also showed poise against double teams, finding open shooters and refusing to let the game speed him up.
His signature herky-jerky style, combined with elite body control, had defenders guessing all night long. At 6’6″ with a 7-foot wingspan, he glided to his spots with ease, manipulating space like a seasoned veteran. He made it clear: he’s built for this stage.
Making History: The Most Points in First Two Finals Games
When legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry debuted in the NBA Finals, they each had moments of brilliance—but none scored as prolifically as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has through their first two games.
70 total points in two Finals games is not just a stat—it’s a statement.
It’s a reminder that we’re watching history unfold. It’s also a testament to the growth Shai has made year after year, transforming from a crafty rookie into a bonafide Finals MVP contender.
This record puts him in rare air. For context, here’s how a few other superstars fared in their first two Finals games:
- Michael Jordan (1991): 62 points
- LeBron James (2007): 45 points
- Stephen Curry (2015): 55 points
- Kobe Bryant (2000): 38 points
Shai isn’t just keeping pace—he’s leading the pack.
A Glimpse Into the Thunder’s Future
Beyond the numbers, SGA’s performance is symbolic of something bigger: the Thunder are ahead of schedule. What was supposed to be a rebuilding year has turned into a title chase, and Shai is the face of it all.
Surrounded by rising talents like Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and a deep, well-coached roster, OKC has become the most exciting young team in the league. But it’s Shai who gives them their identity—calm, confident, and relentless.
Coach Mark Daigneault has praised Shai’s professionalism and leadership all season, and it’s clearly translating in the playoffs. He’s taken full ownership of this team, and the rest of the roster feeds off his energy.
What’s Next in the Series?
With the series now tied 1-1, momentum has shifted. Oklahoma City heads into Game 3 on the road, but they do so with confidence—and a superstar playing the best basketball of his life.
If SGA continues at this level, it’s hard to bet against the Thunder. He’s proven he can break through elite defenses, absorb playoff pressure, and deliver on the biggest stage. And with history already being made, the question becomes: how far can Shai take them?
More importantly—can he win Finals MVP?
If his first two games are any indication, he’s well on his way.
Final Thoughts: A Star is Born—Or Was He Always Here?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise has been steady, calculated, and undeniable. While he may not have come into the league with the same hype as some of his peers, he’s outperformed many of them when it matters most. The Finals spotlight didn’t change him—it revealed him.
Now holding the record for most points in a player’s first two NBA Finals games, SGA is etching his name into the record books—and doing it with style, grace, and killer instinct.
Game 2 wasn’t just a win for the Thunder. It was a coming-out party for one of the league’s most special talents.
And the best part?
He’s just getting started.
