Shai Gilgeous-Alexander talks clutch shot, depth and MSG atmosphere after Thunder beat Knicks

NEW YORK CITY –

Q: How were you able to get good looks offensively against New York’s defense?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander:
“Yeah, I mean they’re a heavy shell team and we were penetrating like we always do, just making the right play for each other. That kind of just trickled down the line.”

Q: What went into the step-back three you hit late in the game?

SGA:
“Late game they were sending a lot of doubles. I just felt like I hadn’t got a shot in a long time and I wanted to have my imprint on the game, especially late. A screen came so I tried to reject it to get space and then OG was chasing to cut me off, so I knew I had to step back.”

Q: Kenrich Williams made some big plays tonight. What did you see from him?

SGA:
“Yeah, it was big time. A couple guys went down and his number was called. He answered the call. It’s nothing new. I expect that from K. Rich. He’s been that all year. Whenever his number’s called, he’s ready. He made big plays tonight.”

Q: What is your mindset when deciding whether to shoot or attack the basket?

SGA:
“I take what they give me. If they’re backed up, I shoot. If they’re close, I drive. And then whatever happens from there.”

Q: What makes the Knicks a tough opponent?

SGA:
“They’re a good team. Obviously a good offense and they have really good defenders out there as well. They’re well balanced. They’re at the top of the East for a reason. They’re a playoff team with a really good roster.”

Q: What have you seen from Chet Holmgren recently?

SGA:
“He’s been himself. He’s found consistency and he’s just going out there playing the game, taking what the defense gives him and being aggressive. He’s had success because of it.”

Q: What is it like playing at Madison Square Garden?

SGA:
“The Garden is fun to play at just because the aroma of the building, the way the court’s lit up and the crowd is a little darkened. It’s fun to play. And then all the historic games that have happened here. It’s always a get-up game for sure.”

Q: What changed defensively after halftime?

SGA:
“We were able to get stops and keep them out of transition. Early in the game they were in transition a lot and they were hurting us. We were able to get back, get set and make them play over the top of us.”

Q: How important has your team’s depth been this season?

SGA:
“We’re a pretty deep team. The amount of injuries we’ve gone through this year and for us to still be in the mix for the top seed in the league and in the West is pretty impressive. That just speaks to the guys that have stepped up.”

“Guys like Isaiah Joe and Kason have transformed their games and shown what they can be when their role is bigger. Then when guys like myself come back, their role changes again. To win a championship, no matter how good your best players are, you need guys like that.”

Q: What ultimately motivates you?

SGA:
“Ultimately just a winner. That’s all I really care about. That’s all I play for — to win.”

Q: Fans were curious about the coat you were wearing after the game. Care to share where it’s from?

SGA:
“Yeah, I’m a gatekeeper. Yeah, thank you. Y’all have a good night.”