In a commanding Game 1 win, Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander became the center of attention for all the wrong reasons.
Throughout the game, he aggressively drove to the basket and exaggerated contact, prompting Doris Burke of ESPN to label him a “free throw merchant” during her commentary.
Burke jokingly remarked, “There’s a reason I like to call him a ‘free throw merchant,’” as viewers witnessed the Timberwolves struggle in a 114-88 defeat.
Just moments before this comment, Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, perhaps sharing the sentiment, got into a tense exchange with Alexander, even earning a technical foul for his frustration.
Gilgeous-Alexander managed to draw four questionable shooting fouls early in the first quarter.
Interestingly, MVP candidates typically average about 9.2 free throw attempts in the playoffs, but the early calls raised eyebrows.
One particular incident drew scrutiny; Gilgeous-Alexander fell to the floor after colliding with the Timberwolves defense. A closer look showed that he had actually tripped over his own leg, prompting a review that Minnesota coach Chris Finch challenged successfully.
During the replay, the ESPN commentators noted the awkwardness of the play. Richard Jefferson said, “I don’t know if it’s a foul or not… Oh, no, he just tripped,” as they examined the call.
Mike Breen remained relatively quiet, as the broadcast showcased a series of Gilgeous-Alexander’s more embarrassing moments.
He was fouled a total of 13 times, and even among the overturned calls, it felt as though he was more of a performer than a player.
Finch expressed frustration to reporters post-game, remarking, “There was a lot of frustration there, but we need to focus on moving forward,” highlighting the need to overcome such challenges.
While Gilgeous-Alexander’s skills are undeniable, many basketball enthusiasts weren’t pleased with how he played the officiating system.
Bill Simmons, on his podcast with guest Zach Lowe, mentioned that the Timberwolves would need to address the fouls called on Alexander. He expressed, “I don’t know if it’s these little touch fouls or who initiated the contact, but it seems like Shai gets the whistle no one else does.”
Lowe added that the Timberwolves were upset and hinted at sending clips to the league during the break between games.
Ultimately, Alexander finished the game shooting 11 for 14 from the line, contributing 31 points, five rebounds, and nine assists to his team’s victory.
It will be intriguing to see if adjustments will be made for Game 2 on Thursday.
