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Tyrese Haliburton Sends Clear Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Message After Thunder-Pacers

The Oklahoma City Thunder continue to dominate the NBA, securing their No. 9 consecutive victory with a 132-111 win over the Indiana Pacers.

This elevates their season record to an impressive 62-12, keeping alive their aspiration to become only the third team in NBA history to achieve a 70-win season.

To reach this milestone, the Thunder must win all their remaining games, giving them a feat previously accomplished by the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls and the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors.

Central to Oklahoma City's success is the stellar performance of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. In the recent game against the Pacers, he led all scorers with 33 points, showcasing his offensive talents.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, Gilgeous-Alexander has been a consistent force, averaging 32.9 points per game, which ranks first in the league.

Additionally, he contributes 6.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage of 52.1%.

The Thunder's dominance isn't limited to individual performances. As a team, they have exhibited remarkable consistency, particularly against Eastern Conference opponents, holding a 27-1 record.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) © Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images © Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Pacers guard delivers a clear statement about Gilgeous-Alexander

Following the recent matchup, Pacers' guard Tyrese Haliburton offered high praise for Gilgeous-Alexander, endorsing him as the clear choice for the NBA's Most Valuable Player award.

"I grew up in an era where the best player on the best team wins MVP every time. I think our era is kind of getting away from that a little bit, which is fine, because, I think Jokic and those guys are warranted when they win," Haliburton said.

"But I think you take away them having the best record, he would still be the MVP, and then you throw on the fact that he has the best record, he kind of makes it an easy decision. I don't have a vote, but if you took a player poll, I'm sure he would win."

Tyrese Halliburton said SGA is the "MVP, no question."

"I grew up in an era where the best player on the best team wins MVP every time. I think our era is kind of getting away from that a little bit, which is fine, because, I think Jokic and those guys are warranted when they… pic.twitter.com/O5gagkQat8

— Joel Lorenzi (@JoelXLorenzi) March 30, 2025

With the team's current momentum and his standout performances, Oklahoma City fans have ample reason for optimism as they eye both a historic 70-win season and a deep playoff run.

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This story was originally published March 30, 2025 at 2:57 PM.

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