After a poor start to Game 3, the Thunder showed why they are ready for a championship. Playing in a road game, the Thunder converted an early setback into a big win, which led to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander detailing the side's title run mindset.

The Oklahoma City Thunder recorded a 123-108 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3. They now lead the Western Conference Finals 2-1. But the win did not look easy at first, especially when the Spurs jumped out to a 15-0 lead. However, following the game, SGA mentioned how his side never lost hope despite the lackluster start.

After the game, Gilgeous-Alexander explained that the Spurs were comfortable playing at home because they had their routine and momentum. He said, "We have a really good basketball team. 1-15 can really play at the highest level. ... No surprise for us, we know what we're capable of.”

During the interview, Gilgeous-Alexander explained where the team's confidence comes from. He delivered this statement right after the Thunder bench produced a franchise playoff record 76 points. The guard noted that the Thunder needed to compete and give themselves a chance to get back in the game. 

Jared McCain led the charge with a huge 24-point performance that shifted the momentum. Jaylin Williams also added an efficient 18-point outing. This production backed up SGA’s claim about the team being strong from top to bottom.

While the bench scored the points, Gilgeous-Alexander delivered an all-around leadership performance. He finished the game with 26 points and 12 assists. SGA recorded 4 assists before he even started scoring his own points. 

The Spurs crowd tried everything, even trying to distract him with loud chants. When asked about the noise, Gilgeous-Alexander said that the chants “do nothing” to bother him. Despite the pressure of the conference finals, Oklahoma City looked comfortable at the moment.

The Thunder Have Responded to Every Question Since Game 1

This series started with some serious doubts after the Thunder dropped Game 1 in double overtime, 122-115. It was their first playoff loss of the entire 2026 postseason.

Critics started questioning their overall execution and their ability to handle Victor Wembanyama. 

The team bounced back in Game 2. SGA delivered a 30-point performance to lead his team to a 122-113 victory. That Game 2 win was the clear sign that Oklahoma City could adjust when tested.

That momentum carried into the incredible Game 3 comeback. Surviving a 15-0 deficit on the road requires brilliant execution. 

Throughout the playoffs, head coach Mark Daigneault has made some smart adjustments. His improved rotations helped the team respond to early adversity. 

The Thunder now look ahead to Game 4, scheduled for 24th May, 2026, in San Antonio. They have a golden opportunity to take commanding control of the series.

What do you think about the Thunder's roster and their chances to win it all this year? 

Read more at Air Jordan Chronicles

Written by

Utsav Sinha

Edited by

Souvik Roy