The OKC Thunder beat the Phoenix Suns 131-122 in Game 4, completing a first-round sweep for the third straight postseason. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way in the win, but he also found himself under heavy criticism on social media.
SGA has a notorious reputation for drawing fouls in ways that frustrate fans, with many believing he often gets calls that seem questionable. A moment late in the second quarter of Monday’s contest added to that long-standing conversation.
Suns’ Jalen Green switched onto him and defended without much contact. Still, SGA took advantage of the situation, selling the play with an exaggerated reaction that convinced the referee to call a foul on Green.
Many viewers were convinced that SGA had flopped and erupted with reactions, fuming with the call.
“This isn’t even basketball at this point,” @NugsGetBuckets said.
“Okc fans will actually defend this shit lmao,” @AFKYuumi wrote.
“He can throw up anything and they’ll call a foul for him 😂😂,” @danhurleyuconn wrote.
“He has the league wrapped around his finger and he knows it,” @Sunassassin99 said.
“Shai has more flopping bait foul highlights than actual highlights. What needs to be done to counter this is there should be 2 fouls one on the defender but also one on the instigator for embellishment. OR no free throws for this always side out. Shouldn’t be rewarded for acting,” @TheImplication2 said.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander finished the night with 31 points, including 11 free throw attempts (his second-fewest in the four-game series), and added 8 assists.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander explains preparation process for upcoming series
The Thunder have taken a big step forward in their title push by reaching the second round. Their next opponent is still undecided, with the LA Lakers-Houston Rockets series still underway.
In the meantime, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is not wasting any time in preparations. He has already been keeping a close eye on both teams, studying what they bring to the table.
“I’ve already been watching all the Lakers and Houston series, so just continue to do so,” Shai said. “Watch both teams, see their strengths and weaknesses. Both of them are obviously in the West. We played them a few times this year, so we know what it’ll look like. Ultimately, we’ve got to get better with the days in between our next opponent.”
Right now, the Lakers are in control with a 3-1 lead and look like the most likely matchup. If that ends up being the case, the Thunder will head into the series with confidence, given the fact that they swept the Lakers 4-0 during the regular season.
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