In Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinal series, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased a remarkable performance, contributing 29 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists, guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to a commanding 117-95 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at home on Tuesday.
Despite shooting 8 of 19 from the field, Gilgeous-Alexander’s prowess at the free-throw line, going 11 of 13, was pivotal in his debut in the second round of the playoffs. Notably, this victory solidified the Thunder’s position as the youngest team in NBA history to clinch a win in a conference semifinal game.
Kyrie Irving tallied 19 points for Dallas, while Luka Doncic concluded the game with 19 points and nine assists. The Mavericks mounted a comeback early in the third quarter, narrowing a 12-point deficit to just one point, courtesy of a timely 3-pointer from Irving assisted by Doncic.
However, Oklahoma City swiftly responded, embarking on a 14-4 run, sparked by Isaiah Joe’s 3-pointer following a timeout. Gilgeous-Alexander played a pivotal role in this surge, assisting on two 3-pointers and punctuating the run with a remarkable 3-pointer from the top of the key, igniting the home crowd’s fervor.
Before the game, Doncic lauded Luguentz Dort’s defensive prowess, dubbing him one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders. Dort demonstrated his defensive prowess during a crucial sequence, disrupting Doncic’s play near midcourt, leading to a fast break capped off by a dunk from Jalen Williams.
Dort’s defensive efforts held Doncic to a challenging shooting night, limiting him to 6-of-19 from the field, including a mere 1-of-8 from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, the Thunder capitalized on the Mavericks’ offensive struggles, forcing 16 turnovers and converting them into 22 points.
Chet Holmgren, contributing 19 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, along with Williams’ 18 points and Aaron Wiggins’ 16 points off the bench, bolstered Oklahoma City’s offensive prowess, particularly in the second quarter.
As the Mavericks faltered with a shooting percentage of just 39.3%, the Thunder capitalized on their offensive efficiency, shooting at a 44.9% clip.
Game 2 of this enthralling best-of-seven series is slated for Thursday at 9:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, promising another intense showdown in Oklahoma City.
