Nem Ilic Reveals Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Reaction to Knicks 2026 Title

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is frustrated watching the New York Knicks celebrate their championship victory after the Oklahoma City Thunder missed out on the 2026 NBA title. Nem Ilic, the guard’s trainer, shared the reaction of the two-time NBA MVP in a report by Mark Media of RG.com.

Gilgeous-Alexander Reacts to Knicks Championship

The Oklahoma City star watched the concluding moments of the postseason as the Knicks secured the title. Ilic stated that the realization of the championship outcome hit the guard immediately as the final series concluded.

I don’t think it really hit him until New York won Game 5. Literally as the buzzer was about to sound, he texted me and said something like, ‘I’m pissed. I can’t believe I’m not here right now.’

Nem Ilic

Ilic added that they watched the opening games together while on vacation, but the definitive feeling of defeat arrived only after New York claimed the trophy.

We were on vacation right around when Games 1 and 2 started. We watched that together. But I didn’t get that same vibe until the series was actually over. Then it hit him that they lost and New York won the championship.

Nem Ilic

Western Conference Finals Exit Precedes New York Title Run

The Thunder fell short of a back-to-back title bid during the previous season, losing a seven-game Western Conference Finals series against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs. The Knicks subsequently dismantled San Antonio in five games in the NBA Finals.

During the regular season, the Thunder swept the Knicks 2-0.

Upcoming Matchup Against the Knicks in Oklahoma City

Despite roster changes involving the departures of Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins, and Isaiah Joe, the Thunder enter the upcoming season prepared to contend. Ilic noted the player’s mindset following the postseason exit.

Shai is not a guy to make excuses. It didn’t work out the way he hoped. But that’s part of an NBA season. But you have to be able to deal with those punches, and he didn’t. So he knew that he had to get back to the drawing board and get better again.

Nem Ilic

The Thunder will host the Knicks on Feb. 7 for the first game of their two-game regular season series.