The Oklahoma City Thunder entered Game 5 of the NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers on Monday night looking to use their home court to their advantage to take control of the series.
That is exactly what they were able to do as the Thunder used a strong defensive performance to grab the 120-109 victory.
With the win, the Thunder now take a 3-2 lead in the series and will have a chance to clinch the championship on Thursday night in Indianapolis.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) and forward Jalen Williams (8)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) and forward Jalen Williams (8)
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
It was a true team effort for Oklahoma City in Game 5 as they saw their both their stars and rotational pieces put together incredible performances to grab a crucial victory.
Jalen Williams led the way for the Thunder as he ended the win with 40 points, six rebounds and four assists.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also put together an incredible performance as he recorded 31 points, two rebounds, 10 assists, two steals and four blocks.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) with the Michael Jordan Trophy for winning the most valuable player award for the 2024-25 season.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) with the Michael Jordan Trophy for winning the most valuable player award for the 2024-25 season.
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
For Shai, it was another incredible performance by the league MVP and he also made NBA playoff history and joined some elite company.
Shai’s 30-point performance in Game 5 on Monday marked his 15th game with 30 or more points this postseason, which is just the fourth time in NBA playoff history a player has accomplished this feat.
By doing so, Shai joined some elite company as the only other three players to accomplish this impressive playoff feat is Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Hakeem Olajuwon.
It was yet another historic night for the MVP, which he has had a ton of this season and it has continued into the Thunder’s playoff run.
Of course, Shai has put together an incredible season and he has been the key to Oklahoma City’s success and he now has them just one win away from a championship.
Shai and the Thunder will now travel to Indianapolis for Game 6 on Thursday night as they try to cap off their dominant season with a title.