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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ties NBA record in heroic win vs. Nuggets
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives between Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun (0) and forward Spencer Jones (21) during the second half at Paycom Center. Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ties NBA record in heroic win vs. Nuggets

Having already put together a career worthy of legendary status, Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had one of the most memorable games of his career to date on Monday night. 

Gilgeous-Alexander, 27, was at his best while matching an icon with a share of NBA history as the Thunder beat the Denver Nuggets 129-126. He scored 35 points, shooting a 66.7% from the field and falling one rebound away from a triple-double with nine boards and 15 assists. 

Gilgeous-Alexander's monster performance saw him tie Wilt Chamberlain for the longest streak of scoring at least 20 points in NBA history at 126 games. 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the hero in more ways than one 

But his total statistics and historic achievement still don't tell the whole story of why the game was a special one for Gilgeous-Alexander.

The reigning league MVP and Finals MVP made sure the Oklahoma City faithful went home happy after his big night. With the game tied at 126-126, Gilgeous-Alexander took control of the ball and drilled a clutch three to win the game in the final seconds. 

"I have answers to the test… but I gotta see the questions first," Gilgeous-Alexander said when asked about his mindset in clutch moments by a reporter after the game.

Gilgeous-Alexander is trying to lead the Thunder to back-to-back titles 

So far through 54 games played, the four-time All-Star is averaging 31.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.6 assists with a 55.1% shooting clip and a 38.3% mark from long range. 

In addition to Gilgeous-Alexander's heroics, the win sent a message to another contender and increased the Thunder's lead at the top of the Western Conference standings. Oklahoma City now holds a 51-15 record and has a three-game lead over the rival San Antonio Spurs

The Nuggets are now 11.5 games back at 39-26 and in sixth place in the conference. 

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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