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OKC's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Named NBA's Top Clutch Performer
The Thunder guard led the league with 175 clutch points and helped Oklahoma City go 20-7 in clutch games, according to the NBA.
On Tuesday, April 21, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named the 2026 NBA Clutch Player of the Year, securing 96 of 100 first-place votes for the Jerry West Trophy.
The NBA defines clutch play as the final five minutes of a game within five points, a scenario where Gilgeous-Alexander led the league with 175 points and guided the Thunder to a 20-7 record.
Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray placed second in voting, one point ahead of Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, who shot 56.5% from the field in clutch moments.
"This award means a lot," Gilgeous-Alexander said, emphasizing his priority of winning games late while leading the Thunder to the league's best record at 64-18.
The NBA will announce the Sixth Man of the Year on Wednesday, followed by the Sportsmanship Award Thursday and Most Improved Player Friday, with Gilgeous-Alexander remaining a finalist for the Most Valuable Player award.