Shai Gilgeous-Alexander responded on the court Saturday, producing a career playoff-high 42 points in Game 3 as the Thunder moved one win away from completing a series sweep of the Suns.
The performance came after Suns forward Dillon Brooks criticized Gilgeous-Alexander following Game 2 for what he described as foul baiting. Rather than engage publicly, Gilgeous-Alexander let his play define the next chapter of the series.
With the Thunder already in control of the matchup, Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring outburst further strengthened their position. His 42 points marked the highest scoring playoff game of his career and put Oklahoma City within one victory of advancing.
Thunder Take Command
Game 3 added to the pressure on Phoenix, which now faces elimination after falling behind in the series. For Oklahoma City, the result reinforced the impact of its leading scorer at a pivotal point in the postseason.