Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Hints Thunder–Spurs Could Become NBA’s Next Real Rivalry
The Oklahoma City Thunder recently faced the San Antonio Spurs in the semifinals of the NBA Cup at T-Mobile Arena. Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered an impressive performance on the court, playing for 37 minutes and scoring 29 points, along with five assists and four rebounds.
Jalen Williams also made a notable contribution, with 17 points, four assists, and seven rebounds. However, their efforts were not enough to secure a victory. During the post-game press conference, a reporter asked Gilgeous-Alexander if a rivalry between the Thunder and Spurs could soon become the biggest in the league.
“You guys obviously defending champs. Still an extraordinarily young team. The Spurs have a pretty impressive young core, too. Do you anticipate this becoming maybe the best rivalry in the league? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Possibly. Yeah, there’s a good chance. They, like you said, are young, really good, have a lot of talent, play the right way, they play good brand of basketball. But yeah. Yeah, definitely, definitely is a possibility. I’ve noticed that like anything could happen in a couple years. So like yeah, it’s definitely a possibility. Not 100%, but definitely a possibility for sure,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
SGA on Thunder/Spurs being a rivalry:
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) December 14, 2025
"Possibly. Yeah, there's a good chance. I've noticed that anything can happen in a couple of years" pic.twitter.com/0WgLXnCUh5
The Thunder and Spurs put on a stellar competition for the fans in the NBA Cup semifinals. The Thunder started the game strong by securing an 11-point lead. However, the Spurs returned stronger in the second quarter and reduced this lead to three points. Moreover, the Spurs showcased dominance in the third and fourth quarters, ultimately winning the game with a final score of 111-109.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Weighs In On Michael Jordan Comparisons
After winning both the NBA MVP and NBA Finals MVP awards last season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is once again striving for success this season. He has been delivering consistently strong performances for the Thunder, solidifying his place in NBA history.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive play has led to remarkable comparisons within the league. Notably, Steve Nash has placed him in the same realm as Michael Jordan, attributing this to one defining trait. Before a recent game, Taylor Rooks asked the Thunder star about this comparison to Jordan.
“Pretty insane. I don’t really love the comparisons, just because he’s done so many things for the game of basketball. To even be in those conversations is surreal. If you ask me, though, I’m still very, very far away. I’ve got a lot of work to do,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
SGA on being compared to Micheal Jordan
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) December 14, 2025
"I don't love the comparison. If you ask me im still very far away" pic.twitter.com/a9GGL6Xf0r
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is currently averaging 32.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 6.4 assists over 25 games this season. The Thunder currently holds the top spot in the Western Conference standings with 24 wins and two losses. They will play their next game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Paycom Center.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Hints Thunder–Spurs Could Become NBA’s Next Real Rivalry
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