Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put on an impressive performance with 40 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists for the Oklahoma City Thunder against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This display of skill and determination showcased why he is a top candidate for the title of NBA MVP. After suffering a devastating 42-point loss, the Thunder bounced back with a 128-126 victory in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals, now leading the series 3-1.

Backing Gilgeous-Alexander’s outstanding showing was Jalen Williams, who contributed 34 points on 13-for-24 shooting, including 6 of 9 from beyond the arc. Additionally, Chet Holmgren chipped in with 21 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks in a memorable game played in his hometown. Their collective efforts were crucial in fending off the Timberwolves’ relentless attempts to even up the series.

Gilgeous-Alexander went 12 for 14 from the free-throw line, making a pair with 6.1 seconds left to stretch the lead back to three.

With just 3.5 seconds left in the game, the Thunder made a strategic play by fouling Anthony Edwards. Edwards intentionally missed the second free throw in an effort to secure possession, but Gilgeous-Alexander’s quick thinking saw him grab the rebound and throw the ball out of bounds to run down the clock, sealing the important win for Oklahoma City.

The Wolves had one more inbounds pass with 0.3 seconds remaining that Williams grabbed to send the Thunder back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Wednesday with the chance to advance to the NBA Finals.

Edwards was limited to 16 points, and Julius Randle (five points on 1-for-7 shooting) was also bottled up by the Thunder’s relentless defense.