In a thriller of a Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the OKC Thunder outperformed the Timberwolves, 126-128. OKC performed one of their best games in the postseason, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.
The competitive fire in Oklahoma did not dim despite the waves of onslaughts coming from the T-wolves’ side. Despite SGA’s strong performance, people couldn’t help but still call him by the infamous name: the free-throw merchant. Speaking to the media, Shai tries to clear the air around the name, once and for all.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Brushes Aside Talks on Being Called Free Throw Merchant
The newly crowned MVP, SGA, dropped a playoff career high 40 points in Game 4, making OKC take a series lead with 3-1. Even with a chance to send the T-wolves back home, allegations against him for thriving on free throws do not end.
Addressing the media after the game, this is what he said: “In terms of the label, I don’t care. Never cared. I’ve shot more free throws than I did this season. Because we’re on the top of people’s radar, it’s a little more noticeable… kind of see it as a compliment.”
Shai on being labeled a ‘free throw merchant’:
“I don’t care.”
(via @ScoopB)pic.twitter.com/i3p1f6dcv7
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 27, 2025
Before putting up 40 points on Monday, SGA’s previous playoff high was 38 points, recorded twice. One of these was in the second game against the Timberwolves and the other against the Grizzlies in Game 4 of the first round.
Along with 40 points, he also had 10 assists and nine rebounds, just one short of a triple-double. He’s only the seventh player to have 40 points and 10 assists in the conference finals, per Real Sports.
He did win the 2024-25 scoring title, with 32.7 points, 5 rebounds and 6.4 assists, but he also had the most number of free throws, with 7.9.
Yes, his magic and maneuverability work wonders for Thunder, but his playing style works more with the midrange. He gets close to the basket and draws as many fouls as needed. Is it all theatrical or part of a game of chess? It’s the main question now, since he has managed to bring his team to this level!
The Tag SGA Earned Could Be Because of His Body Structure
For the majority of NBA fans, Shai’s antics are rather contradictory to the new wave of “physicality” that has entered the courts. Shai, in particular, has a body structure that allows him to bend peculiarly, making him susceptible to falling down as well. He is known to attract whistles, drawing fouls and more; no wonder the chants of “free-throw merchant” make rounds when he is actually throwing one.
The label may or may not be true, but this is what has come to define Shai and his playmaking. This is his perception – he is now deemed a foul baiter too, who unethically manipulates the game with slight movements.
Shai makes risky and delicate moves, all thanks to his body structure. It does leave his body prone to colliding with the opponent, affecting his trajectory on the court. Some of the movements are not exactly a reaction, but preemptive, as he braces himself down the court. Definitely adding another layer to his already bad reputation.
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SGA does have the ability to keep the opponent on their toes, so calling out a foul can simply be a power move to make his team win and counter the opponent’s intimidation.
Led by SGA, and his agility, precision passing, and attacking, the Thunder are now reaching here, just one step away from the NBA Finals. Along with his entire team, he has the ability to dissect and dominate the opponent’s defense and stifle them with tactical plays.
