After a 113-104 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets in Game 3, Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander walked off the court with a smile—an expression that puzzled many fans given the heartbreaking defeat.
But in his postgame press conference, Gilgeous-Alexander revealed the reason behind his reaction, offering insight into his mentality and approach to adversity.
“Some fans were taunting me, and I know how the game goes. I know how life is. It’s easy to taunt when you’re up. And I don’t ever want to show them that I’m defeated or mad or anything like that. Nothing’s written. The series is not over,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
“Some fans were taunting me… It’s easy to taunt when you’re up.” 👀
SGA explains why he was smiling as he walked off the court in Game 3 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/bGms8Ty7qK
— NBA TV (@NBATV) May 10, 2025
Gilgeous-Alexander struggled throughout the game, finishing with 18 points on 7-for-22 shooting, including 1-for-8 in the fourth quarter. Most notably, he did not attempt a single shot in overtime, a key factor in OKC’s offensive collapse.
Despite the disappointing performance, he remained optimistic about his ability to bounce back.
“I didn’t perform the way I did down the stretch, but I have an opportunity in the next game and the next game after that to make up for it. And I’m optimistic about it,” he added.
With the Nuggets now holding a 2-1 series lead, the Thunder face a crucial Game 4. Gilgeous-Alexander’s mindset will be key—his ability to shake off the struggles of Game 3 and lead his team forward could determine the trajectory of the series.
Game 4 is set for today, Sunday, May 11, where OKC will look to even the series and prove that their fight is far from over.
