Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will always treasure this night.
The Thunder clinched their second NBA title in franchise history—marking their first since relocating from Seattle—by defeating the Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 on Sunday. After the victory, the newly minted Finals MVP embraced his wife, Haley Summers, on the court at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
“It was an incredible moment,” Gilgeous-Alexander reflected on the celebration, mentioning how the fans made it unforgettable. “It was such a joy, just what I anticipated.”
In emotional footage from the event, Summers can be seen leaping into her husband’s arms after his outstanding performance, which included 29 points, five rebounds, and 12 assists.
This season, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 32.7 points during the regular season, helping the Thunder finish with an impressive 68-14 record and clinch the top seed in the West. He maintained an average of 29.9 points through the playoffs.
Even amid the post-game celebration, the three-time All-Star expressed a sense of disbelief. “It still feels unreal,” the 26-year-old said. “So many hours of hard work. So many feelings. It’s incredible that we made it here, but this group put in the effort and truly deserves this.”
At halftime, the Thunder were trailing 48-47 while the Pacers faced challenges, especially after losing their star, Tyrese Haliburton, to a serious Achilles injury in the first quarter.
In the second half, OKC erupted, scoring 56 points.
Gilgeous-Alexander shared his heart for this milestone season, dedicating it to Haley and their one-year-old son, Ares. He had a special moment last May when he was named NBA MVP for the 2024-25 season.
“Thank you, Haley Summers, for everything,” he expressed. “And to Ares, our son, I’m forever grateful. You taught me what love and sacrifice truly are.”
The couple is said to have tied the knot in February 2024.
