After defeating the Denver Nuggets, the Oklahoma City Thunder secured another key victory, moving closer to the NBA playoffs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a dominant performance. However, his postgame comments about his mentality stole the spotlight.

© Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesShai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder reacts in the final seconds of their 135-119 win over the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on February 28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have enjoyed an impressive NBA season with a 53-11 record. They hold the top spot in the Western Conference.

Their playoff spot seems almost certain. Head coach Mark Daigneault has helped Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reach his best form.

Shai showed his talent in a key win over the Nuggets. After the game, he shared his thoughts on his mindset.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was asked about his mentality in an important team game against a direct MVP rival: “Get a win.

That’s what it’s all about for me…I love MVPs, I love All-Stars, I love all the accolades that comes with it but none of it matters if you don’t win and that’s where I hang my hat and I’m pleased with the outcome tonight because we won.“

Despite being one of the NBA‘s top stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander puts team success above personal achievements. This mindset shows his impressive maturity at just 26 years old.

With that focus, he delivered a stellar performance. He scored 38 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists. 

His efforts led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a crucial win over the Nuggets.

Although Shai Gilgeous-Alexander draws much of the spotlight, the Thunder’s impressive success is a result of collective effort. 

Head coach Mark Daigneault has excelled in guiding each player to embrace their role and contribute to the team’s achievements.

This cohesion has been crucial to Oklahoma City’s remarkable consistency this season, as the franchise aims for a strong playoff run.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates after scoring

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander makes surprising statements about the NBA MVP award

Despite having one of the best seasons of his career, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains humble about the possibility of winning the 2025 NBA MVP award: “It’s something to talk about…It’s entertainment that’s part of the sport.

It’s an honor to be in the conversation itself.”

Shai also admitted that much of the recognition comes from his teammates and described the experience as enjoyable.

However, he emphasized the importance of winning games: “No matter how good of a player I am, if we don’t check the win column as much as we do, the conversation wouldn’t be a conversation.”