Oklahoma City (AP) – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander received crucial support from his teammates during Game 2 of the NBA Finals, as the Oklahoma City Thunder balanced the series with a 123-107 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night.
After scoring 38 points in Game 1, Gilgeous-Alexander found his team stepping up; a last-minute jumper from Tyrese Halliburton led the Pacers to a 111-110 win.
In Game 2, Gilgeous-Alexander tallied 34 points along with 8 assists, showcasing the prowess expected from a league MVP and scoring champion.
Co-stars Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren delivered their usual performances on Sunday, ensuring the Pacers wouldn’t be able to utilize their final opportunities. Veteran reserve Alex Caruso also had a strong outing, while Aaron Wiggins provided an unexpected lift in Oklahoma City’s first Finals victory since 2012.
“I thought everyone performed better individually, leading to improved collective play,” said Thunder coach Mark Daigneault.
Wiggins, who played sparingly in Game 1 and scored just three points, exploded for 18 points in Game 2 and sank five three-pointers. He acknowledged that inconsistent playing time was challenging, but his focus was on contributing to the team.
“It’s the NBA,” he remarked. “There are plenty of ups and downs. Many others have faced similar situations, and many have earned their keep. I recognize that I’m still in the NBA, and it’s a blessing to do what I love.”
His performance was a much-appreciated addition for the Thunder.
“He was vital tonight,” Daigneault commented. “We approached the game with confidence, coming in strong from the second quarter. Such circumstances require great professionalism, preparation, and execution from us.”
Williams, an All-Star, contributed 17 points on a 19-6 shooting performance in the opener, followed by 19 points in Game 2. Although he struggled a bit with his shooting, making only five of his 14 shots, he impressed by hitting eight of nine free throws, applying pressure on Indiana’s defense.
Holmgren, who managed only six points in the opener, bounced back with 15 points and six rebounds on an 11-6 shooting night. Veteran guard Caruso, acquired via offseason trade, added 20 points, including 4 of 8 from beyond the arc.
The Pacers are aware that while Gilgeous-Alexander can score, they need to improve their defense against the rest of the Oklahoma City roster as they prepare for Game 3 in Indianapolis.
“It’s about slowing him (Gilgeous-Alexander) down and containing the role players,” Pacer Center Miles Turner said. “Several stepped up tonight; I think Wiggins had an impressive game, and Caruso did what was necessary.”
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Source: apnews.com