Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Defends 'Free-Throw Merchant' Label

The Oklahoma City Thunder star responds to criticism of his free-throw shooting style.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:38am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors capturing the explosive energy and scoring prowess of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as he drives to the hoop, the basketball court and players dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint.Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's relentless drives to the basket and ability to draw fouls have been a key part of the Thunder's success, as the All-Star guard continues to cement his status as one of the NBA's elite scorers.Oklahoma City Today

Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander addressed the criticism of his 'free-throw merchant' label during a recent media availability. Gilgeous-Alexander, who is leading the Thunder to the top seed in the Western Conference for the third straight year, defended his approach, stating that getting to the free-throw line is part of being an elite scorer. The 24-year-old also reflected on the growth of both himself and the team over the past few seasons.

Why it matters

Gilgeous-Alexander's comments provide insight into how he views his playing style and the importance of free-throw shooting for top scorers in the NBA. As the Thunder continue their pursuit of an NBA championship, Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to get to the line and convert free throws could be a key factor in their success.

The details

Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging a career-high 28.7 points per game this season, addressed the 'free-throw merchant' label during a postgame media session. He stated that getting to the free-throw line is part of being an elite scorer, and that he is simply doing whatever it takes to be the best player he can be. The Thunder star also noted that the team has grown in its understanding of what it takes to win, moving past the 'razzle dazzle' and focusing on the fundamentals of the game.

  • Gilgeous-Alexander made his comments following the Thunder's 4-0 week, which clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference for the third consecutive season.
  • The Thunder have two games remaining in the 2025-26 regular season.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

A 24-year-old All-Star guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is leading the team to the top seed in the Western Conference for the third straight year.

Oklahoma City Thunder

An NBA franchise based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma that has emerged as a top contender in the Western Conference in recent seasons.

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What they’re saying

“'All the best scorers get to the free-throw line, and I'm after being the best. It's that simple. So, whatever it takes to be the best is whatever I'm trying to go out there and do. Free throws [are] a part of the game, and if I get fouled, I get fouled. If I don't get fouled, I try to make the shot, and that's how you play basketball.'”

— Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder All-Star

“'I think I'm a world of a better player. Not only myself but the team understands what it really takes. I think our experiences have naturally done that for us. We understand how to win and the formula for winning. And we understand that every night doing that is the real key to success. And it's not all the other razzle dazzle, and the stuff that's cute with basketball.'”

— Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder All-Star

What’s next

With the Thunder having clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, their focus will shift to preparing for the playoffs and making a push for an NBA championship.

The takeaway

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's comments demonstrate his commitment to doing whatever it takes to be an elite scorer in the NBA, even if that means relying heavily on free-throw attempts. As the Thunder continue their pursuit of a title, Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to get to the line and convert could be a crucial factor in their success.