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Thunder GM Defends Shai, Calls Press Conferences “Bully Pulpit”

6/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Thunder general manager Sam Presti defended two-time MVP guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at an end-of-season media availability.
He called postgame press conferences a “bully pulpit” used to criticize officials and opponents.
Presti said Gilgeous-Alexander drew 415 fouls, faced six people including social media, and had 11 challenges with four overturns.
He praised the guard’s two-way play, durability, mid-range revival, and 400 pre-game autographs, urging focus on his contributions.

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Story summary

Thunder general manager Sam Presti defended two-time MVP guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at an end-of-season media availability.
He called postgame press conferences a “bully pulpit” used to criticize officials and opponents.
Presti said Gilgeous-Alexander drew 415 fouls, faced six people including social media, and had 11 challenges with four overturns.
He praised the guard’s two-way play, durability, mid-range revival, and 400 pre-game autographs, urging focus on his contributions.