Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Felt good, didn’t go in. We need to be better in Game 2

Despite a 38-point performance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander couldn’t close the game, missing the last OKC shot before Haliburton’s buzzer beater. “Thought it was a good look… didn’t go in,” he told reporters postgame.

SGA stayed composed: “It’s not first to one, it’s first to four. We need four wins, they need three.” He added that the team must improve both ends of the floor before Sunday’s Game 2.

The MVP reminded everyone: “Yes, it’s the Finals, but our identity doesn’t change. It’s still basketball.”