INDIANA - The Oklahoma City Thunder's winning formula is simple - be hungry and play as a team.
On Dec. 26, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander matched his career high with 45 points to lead the team over the Indiana Pacers 120-114 on the road, stretching their National Basketball Association (NBA) winning streak to nine games.
The 26-year-old Canadian guard made 15 of 22 shots from the floor, four of five from three-point range, and all 11 of his free throws, while adding seven rebounds, eight assists, two blocked shots and a steal in a masterful performance.
"It's the extra plays that put you over the edge," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "We have a group of guys hungry to do whatever it takes to win and that's why we win."
Jalen Williams added 20 points and Isaiah Hartenstein contributed 11 points and 13 rebounds for Oklahoma City in his 11th double-double of the season.
The Western Conference-leading Thunder are 24-5 and on a roll, despite a loss in the NBA Cup final to the Milwaukee Bucks that does not count against them in the regular season.
"The main thing is it's genuine," said Hartenstein.
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