Shai Gilgeous-Alexander publicly described his 2025-2026 NBA season as a failure one day after the Oklahoma City Thunder lost Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals to the San Antonio Spurs on August 19, 2026 [1]. Gilgeous-Alexander said, "I failed at my goal. I didn't achieve what I wanted to achieve," reflecting on his inability to defend the championship and reach his target for the season [1].
During the regular season, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged an impressive 31.1 points per game, shooting 55.3% overall and 38.6% from three-point range [2, 1]. However, in the seven-game series against the Spurs, his production noticeably declined. He averaged 25.9 points per game on 40.9% shooting and 28.6% from beyond the arc [2, 1]. Despite scoring 35 points in the decisive Game 7, his efforts were not enough to secure the win [2, 1].
The Spurs focused their defense heavily on Gilgeous-Alexander throughout the series. Stephon Castle was assigned to closely guard him on the perimeter while Victor Wembanyama protected the rim, funneling much of the Thunder’s offense into tough shots [2, 1]. Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged the challenge but maintained, "It's a really good defense. But it's not impossible to score. I just think it's very different" from what he faced in past seasons [1].
Adding to the Thunder's difficulties was the absence of their second-leading scorer, Jalen Williams, who missed much of the series with a left hamstring injury and did not play in Game 7. Williams commented, "I think we could have won if I played. Went to seven with them without me playing. I don't think I make us worse" but also recognized the Spurs’ strength [1].
Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized that his failure to reach his goal has a reason, which he plans to identify and address to avoid repeating the outcome in future seasons [1].
