Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Breaks NBA Finals Scoring Record as Series Ties at 1-1

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Oklahoma City Thunder star and NBA MVP, has made an extraordinary impact in his first NBA Finals, scoring a record 72 points across his first two games, surpassing Allen Iverson's 2001 mark. Despite it being his debut in the title series, Gilgeous-Alexander remains composed, focusing on playing authentically and attacking the game the right way. The Thunder and Indiana Pacers are tied 1-1, with Gilgeous-Alexander contributing 38 points in the Game 1 loss and 34 points in the Game 2 win. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praises the MVP's consistent progression and ability to rise in crucial moments, highlighting his impressive floor game and collective team improvement. In Game 2, Gilgeous-Alexander also recorded eight assists, making him the 17th player in NBA history to combine such a point and assist tally in a Finals game, with six of those assists setting up three-pointers. His performance underscores his pivotal role as the series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 3.