Following the defeat in the first game of the Western Conference semifinal series, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, visibly calm, went to the interview room. The Oklahoma City Thunder team suffered an unexpected collapse in the final minutes, allowing the Denver Nuggets to overcome a 14-point deficit.
The Nuggets, after a close game, took the victory away with a score of 121-119. Oklahoma City, leader of the conference, made mistakes that resulted in their first playoff loss, after having maintained a considerable lead in the final minutes.
Gilgeous-Alexander, when questioned, highlighted the importance of this defeat as an opportunity for the team to demonstrate its resilience.
It should be fun. We’re going to find out what we’re made of, what we’re really made of. Nobody expected everything to be a bed of roses on this journey. No journey in life is, and we know that. Today’s is a bump in the road, unexpected. Nobody expects to lose, especially in that way, but that’s the game of life. It’s about how you respond when you get knocked down.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
In the last four minutes, the Nuggets outscored Oklahoma City 19-6, after a three-pointer by Gilgeous-Alexander extended the Thunder’s lead. Nikola Jokic, with 42 points, led Denver’s offense, keeping his team in the fight.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the need to improve in the execution of the game plan and in the team’s direction.
The strategy of committing fouls, which sought to protect a three-point lead in the final seconds, did not work. Alex Caruso committed quick fouls that allowed Denver to extend the game.
Caruso, who had an outstanding performance with 20 points, six assists, five steals and two blocks, regretted the final situation, although he acknowledged that the game was not lost in those final seconds.
Oklahoma City also had the opportunity to secure at least a tie, but Chet Holmgren missed two crucial free throws. Denver’s Aaron Gordon seized the opportunity to score a three-pointer, securing the victory for Denver.
Daigneault concluded by highlighting the need to face adversity and the inherent struggle of the playoffs.
