Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Responds To Fans Complaining About Refs

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated May 13, 2026 1:43 PM ET

Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is well aware of chatter about him online.

Gilgeous-Alexander is having yet another efficient postseason for the Thunder, averaging 29.1 points and 7.1 assists per game. However, fans aren't thrilled that he's averaging over 10 free throw attempts per contest. They believe he's hunting for fouls every time he comes down the floor.

After helping Oklahoma City sweep the Los Angeles Lakers this week, Gilgeous-Alexander addressed that popular narrative.

"The way I see it, the fans, the people that watched the games and root against us, they want their team to win. You will never hear an Oklahoma City Thunder fan complaining about my free throws. You will never hear a Lakers fan complaining about LeBron or Luka's free throws," Gilgeous-Alexander said, via ESPN. "I get it, guys. I would hate me too."

Judging by that remark, Gilgeous-Alexander isn't afraid to embrace the villain role.

May 5, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) goes up for a basket as Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) defends in the second half during game one of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images.

NBA fans fire back at SGA.

Unsurprisingly, these comments from Gilgeous-Alexander ruffled some feathers this Wednesday.

"If he thinks people just hate his game bc he wins then he doesn’t get it," one fan replied. "People expect okc to win, what we hate is how unnecessary all the extra stuff is bc they can and should win without it."

"He’s so full of himself it’s actually hilarious," a second fan commented.

"This is so rich coming from the most unethical basketball player to the game," another fan said.

"The nerve on this guy LeBron and Luka never get the free throws they deserve they also don’t flop," a Lakers fan wrote.

Make no mistake, NBA fans will continue to complain this postseason about the way Oklahoma City is officiated.

With that said, Gilgeous-Alexander will be back in action when the Western Conference finals begin. The defending champions will take on either the Minnesota Timberwolves or San Antonio Spurs.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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