Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the MVP, and Chet Holmgren had to let everybody know.
The Oklahoma City Thunder shunned the Denver Nuggets 125-93 at Paycom Center to win the Conference Semifinals. Shai, along with Jalen Williams were the top performers as they together scored 49 points.
After the game, Chet Holmgren cashed out on the occasion and declared Gilgeous-Alexander as the MVP during the media chat.
“You know who this is? The MVP,” Holmgren said.
"You know who this is? The MVP."
— ESPN (@espn) May 18, 2025
Chet letting the world know about SGA after OKC advances ⚡ pic.twitter.com/3LHWDBvq5z
The Thunder were in high spirit throughout the game as they overcame an early first-quarter deficit, erupting for 39 points in the second quarter. They continued their dominance by outscoring the Nuggets in both the third and fourth quarters.
As of now, the MVP award winner has not been announced yet, but Holmgren has his mind fixated on his teammate winning the award.
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Nikola Jokic Praised Shai Gilgeous-Alexander After Game 7
While Chet put his support for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the MVP race leader was nothing short of spectacular with his performance. He poured in 35 points, complemented by three rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block.
His shooting skills were on a surge as well. He shot a stellar 63.2% from the field (12-of-19) and hit 75% of his three-pointers (3-of-4) during his 36 minutes on the court.
This win is especially exciting for the Thunder fans, as it marks the team’s first trip to the Western Conference finals since 2016.
After the game, Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP of the Nuggets, had some high praise for Gilgeous-Alexander.
“He’s a special player. His shot selection, his shot’s capability, making his own shots, separation, playing at his rhythm. Defensively, he was like always tipping the balls, always blocking shots… He’s a special player,” Jokic said.
"He's a special player."
— NBA (@NBA) May 18, 2025
Joker gives high praise postgame to SGA after battling him in a 7-game series in the playoffs!#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google pic.twitter.com/wDvHyiaYRN
Despite the loss, Jokic had a great game himself, finishing with 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.
Looking ahead, the Thunder will now face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves, led by rising star Anthony Edwards, in the Western Conference finals. Game 1 is set for Tuesday night in Oklahoma City, and fans are buzzing with excitement!
