Shai Gilgeous-Alexander maintained a positive outlook despite the Oklahoma City Thunder's narrow loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup semi-finals. The Thunder, who had only lost once this season
before this game, saw their impressive 16-game winning streak come to an end with a 111-109 defeat at T-Mobile Arena. Gilgeous-Alexander led his team with 29 points, while Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams each contributed 17 points.
The Thunder's defeat marked only their second loss in 26 games. They had built a significant 16-point lead during the second quarter but couldn't maintain it. Coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged that although they started well, the Spurs outperformed them in the last three quarters. "They outplayed us," he stated, noting that it's challenging to control or win a game when outplayed for most of it.
Despite the setback, Gilgeous-Alexander expressed optimism about learning from the experience. He remarked, "Personally, I think it's exciting. It's easier to learn when you don't feel the way you want to feel. " He added that facing the Spurs again soon would be a good challenge for his team.
Final from Las Vegas pic.twitter.com/79Ul9MNobL OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) December 14, 2025
Gilgeous-Alexander likened the upcoming rematches with the Spurs to retaking a test after failing it initially. "It's like an automatic test," he said. He emphasised that losing is where growth happens and improvements are made. The point guard stressed that talent alone doesn't guarantee victory; effort and execution are crucial.
The Thunder's coach was uncertain about what specifically changed during the game but acknowledged that being outplayed for most of the match made it difficult to secure a win. Despite their early lead, Oklahoma couldn't prevent their second defeat of the season.
The Thunder will face the Spurs twice more in their next five games, providing opportunities for redemption and growth. Gilgeous-Alexander remains hopeful about these challenges, seeing them as chances to improve and learn from past mistakes.
