Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Reflected on Mentality Before Pivotal Game 4 Amid Outside Noise

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated May 12, 2025 11:37 AM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a hard-fought victory in Game 4 against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday during the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The game took place at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo., in front of nearly 20,000 fans.

The game began as a struggle for both teams, with the score at 17-8 in favor of the Thunder by the end of the first quarter. The 25 points tied the fewest combined points scored in the first quarter in NBA Playoffs history in the shot clock era.

The Nuggets rallied in the second and third quarters, even taking a six-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. However, the fourth quarter belonged to the Thunder, particularly to star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Oklahoma City outscored Denver 29-18 during that period, with Gilgeous-Alexander contributing nine points. Ultimately, the Thunder won the game 92-87, tying the series at two games each.

Gilgeous-Alexander was asked after the game about his mentality heading into the crucial Game 4.

"My mentality was do whatever it takes to win," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "I do put a lot of pressure on myself. I have very high expectations for myself. I always have. I always dream big and reach for the stars and try to accomplish my goals."

Gilgeous-Alexander's mentality has come under scrutiny after a video showed him laughing following the Thunder's loss in overtime during Game 3, where they blew a lead. Fans expressed their displeasure on social media.

This incident occurred after the MVP candidate scored only three points, shooting 1-of-8 in the fourth quarter and overtime. Notably, he did not attempt a single shot during the overtime period and missed his last seven attempts in a game that could have secured an Oklahoma City victory. The Nuggets' forward Aaron Gordon made a three-pointer to tie the game at 102 with 27 seconds remaining. Denver then dominated the fourth quarter, ultimately winning 113-104.

Gilgeous-Alexander explained he laughed because some fans were taunting him, and he didn't want to show them he was defeated or upset.

As the series moves on, the Thunder will face a critical Game 5 at home on Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. ET. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets will aim to secure another win in Oklahoma City, putting the Thunder on the brink of elimination.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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