Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points, including 20 in the second half, as the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a sluggish start to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 114-88 in Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference finals.
The Thunder trailed 48-44 at halftime, with Minnesota’s Julius Randle leading the way.
However, Gilgeous-Alexander sparked a dominant second-half surge, acknowledging a “rusty” start but emphasizing the need for aggression.
Gilgeous-Alexander also contributed five rebounds and nine assists. Game 2 of the series is set for Friday in Oklahoma City.
