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Devin Booker tips cap to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 'He’s the MVP of the league'
TL;DR
Devin Booker praised Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the MVP of the league following the Thunder's sweep of the Suns in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs. Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 31 points in Game 4, while Booker struggled throughout the series.
Key points
- Devin Booker praised Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as MVP
- Thunder swept the Suns in Round 1 of the 2026 NBA Playoffs
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points in Game 4
- Devin Booker averaged 21.3 points in the series
- Thunder aim for back-to-back titles
Oklahoma City ThunderPhoenix SunsShai Gilgeous-AlexanderDevin Booker
Apr 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) greets Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) after advancing in a four game sweep of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Starting their voyage for a hopeful back-to-back title, the Oklahoma City Thunder have kept pace with last year's destination to a Larry O'Brien trophy. For the third straight year, they completed a Round 1 sweep. This time, over the Phoenix Suns.
The Thunder completed a 131-122 Game 4 win over the Suns. With Jalen Williams sidelined halfway through the Round 1 series, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander amped up his playoff production. He had an efficient 31 points and eight assists.
Meanwhile, the Suns' counterpart couldn't match his production — or really, get anywhere near the zone of it. Devin Booker was a no-show for the Round 1 series. He averaged a forgettable 21.3 points on 46% and 4.8 assists. He had 24 points and six assists in Game 4.
Afterward, game recognized game. Booker tipped his cap to the Thunder. And specifically, Gilgeous-Alexander. The 29-year-old has been in the NBA long enough to know when you're seeing an all-time legend. Considering Gilgeous-Alexander will likely win back-to-back MVP awards, the Phoenix NBA superstar gave him full credit for being unstoppable.
Q&A
Why did Devin Booker call Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the MVP?
Devin Booker referred to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the MVP due to his outstanding performance, including scoring 31 points in the decisive Game 4 of the playoffs.
What were Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's stats in the first round against the Suns?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 31 points and eight assists in the first round, significantly contributing to the Thunder's success.
How did Devin Booker perform in the playoff series against the Thunder?
Devin Booker struggled in the series, averaging 21.3 points and 4.8 assists, with a notable performance of 24 points and six assists in Game 4.
