On a recent segment of ESPN’s Get Up, former NBA player and analyst Jay Williams didn’t mince words when it came to Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. As the playoffs heat up and expectations rise, Williams called out the All-NBA guard with a clear and pointed message:
“It’s time for SGA to show up in the postseason.”
There’s no denying the incredible regular season SGA just had. He averaged over 30 points per game, led the Thunder to a surprising top-three seed in the Western Conference, and cemented himself as one of the most complete guards in the league. His ability to score from all three levels, get to the rim at will, and defend at a high level has turned heads across the NBA. But as Jay Williams pointed out, regular season accolades only go so far when the playoffs begin.
“You’re a superstar now,” Williams said. “You’ve proven that. But the great ones elevate when the lights are brightest. This is the moment for SGA to stamp his name among the elite—not just for what he’s done—but for what he does in the postseason.”
Why the Pressure Is On
The Thunder are ahead of schedule in their rebuild. With a young core featuring Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Josh Giddey, OKC has built a versatile, exciting roster. But make no mistake: SGA is the engine. When he’s on, the Thunder can compete with anyone. When he’s passive or neutralized, the team struggles to find a consistent offensive rhythm.
Jay Williams’ comments are less of a criticism and more of a challenge—a reminder that the postseason is where legacies are forged. And for SGA, this is the first time he’s entered the playoffs as the guy. In previous years, he was either a rising talent or part of a team without expectations. That’s changed. Now, he’s a legitimate MVP candidate on a team with home-court advantage.
“You’ve got to lead from the front,” Williams added. “The numbers don’t have to be 40 points a night, but the tone you set—the confidence, the urgency, the clutch moments—that’s what separates the good from the great.”
A New Era in OKC
SGA has already flashed postseason potential. His poise, footwork, and creativity off the dribble make him a nightmare to guard, even when defenses lock in. But as defenses tighten and scouting narrows, the next step in his evolution will be navigating double-teams, making high-IQ decisions, and consistently hitting big shots when it matters most.
This postseason is a chance for Shai to introduce himself to a broader audience—the casual fans who tune in during April and May and ask, “Wait, who is this guy?” Williams—and many others—believe this is his moment to answer.
And if SGA does rise to the occasion?
Watch out. The Thunder aren’t just a feel-good story—they’re a threat. And Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could go from star to superstar in real time.
