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T-Wolves fans taunt SGA in Game 4: 'Free Throw Merchant'

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By Titan Frey | Last updated May 27, 2025 3:05 PM ET

Timberwolves fans are not happy after Game 4, largely due to a certain “Free-Throw Merchant.” Their beloved team has fallen into a 3-1 deficit, and things are looking bleak.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, this season’s MVP, had another huge performance. SGA scored a playoff career-high 40 points in Game 4 on 13-30 from the field and 12-14 from the free throw line.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s free throw attempts have become a topic among all fans across the league. Many believe he gets the benefit of the whistle from the referees.

T-Wolves fans are no different. They believe this wholeheartedly and let SGA know with a “Free-Throw Merchant” chant during Game 4.

Wolves fans are chanting "free throw merchant" at SGA pic.twitter.com/TBh16JP0MK

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 27, 2025

SGA’s free-throw attempts could be because the referees are looking out for him. Or they could be from his attacking style of play.

Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves star player, often settles for long threes when he should be attacking the hoop. Edwards is more than capable of finishing at the rim with a huge slam dunk, which could also lead to more foul calls in his favor.

In Game 4, SGA attempted 14 free throws, compared to Edwards’ seven attempts. Gilgeous-Alexander also attempted 17 more field goals, proving his level of aggressiveness was superior.

SGA likely doesn’t mind being called a “Free-Throw Merchant.” He has his team one win away from a trip to the NBA Finals, which he’ll look to clinch in Game 5.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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