When the NBA announced it would place greater emphasis on calling push-offs this season, many questioned what it would mean for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Labeled the NBA’s “foul merchant,” Gilgeous-Alexander has repeatedly shown his craftiness in drawing fouls and going to the free-throw line.

After the OKC Thunder defeated the San Antonio Spurs in their season opener on Tuesday, ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins downplayed the concerns that the new push-off rules would hinder Gilgeous-Alexander’s production.

“People really thought the new push off rule was going to impact SGA! Stop it! He’s really HIM! It’s getting close to that time to have a Real uncomfortable conversation,” Perkins tweeted.

Notably, SGA had just four free throw attempts in the opening game. The two-time NBA MVP wasted no time reaching into his bag of tricks, finishing with a game-high 32 points on 13-for-27 shooting.

Though the Spurs had the edge in free throws (a 22-of-25 shooting clip compared to the Thunder’s 16-of-20), the Western Conference champions were unable to contain SGA and his running mates. Reserve guard Jared McCain torched the Spurs from outside, making six of eight 3-point attempts to finish with 20 points.

Chet Holmgren added 14 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks, while Jalen Williams had 12 points, seven boards, and two assists. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama made just one field goal but hit 10 free throws for 12 points in the Spurs’ first loss of the season.

“It’s a Longer Summer When You Don’t Win”: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Opens Up on Thunder’s Mindset

In his post-game interview, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander admitted the Thunder’s elimination by the Spurs in the 2026 Western Conference Finals was weighing on the players’ minds.

“It’s a longer summer when you don’t win. We felt that this summer, so we’re just happy to be back.”

Gilgeous-Alexander added that Tuesday night’s victory “doesn’t prove anything,” as the Thunder have 81 regular-season games left.

OKC’s next assignment will be Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. The Thursday night matchup, which tips off at 9:30 p.m. ET, will be the Thunder’s home opener at Paycom Center.

READ MORE:

College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!