OKLAHOMA CITY
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a spectacular 30-point performance to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a dominant 124-95 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in an NBA thriller here at the Paycom Centre on Wednesday.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s all-around play was crucial in the Thunder maintaining control throughout the game. He finished with an efficient 11-of-15 shooting, added six assists, and collected four steals, all while keeping a clean sheet with no turnovers. The star guard’s impressive display helped Oklahoma City extend its home record to an NBA-best 17-1 and secure a third consecutive win, rounding off a successful four-game homestand.
The Thunder seized control early, going on a 16-4 run in the first quarter, sparked by Gilgeous-Alexander’s two assists, four points, and overall hustle.By halftime, Oklahoma City had built a comfortable 18-point lead, with Gilgeous-Alexander contributing 18 of his 30 points.
Oklahoma City’s defence was stifling, forcing 15 steals and outscoring the Blazers 28-17 off turnovers, 52-34 in the paint, and 52-33 off the bench. Ajay Mitchell added 17 points, Isaiah Joe nailed five three-pointers to finish with 15 points, and Chet Holmgren contributed 12 points, 10 rebounds, and a season-high six blocks.
Portland, led by Sidy Cissoko’s career-high 19 points, struggled offensively, shooting just 39.1% from the field. Despite a solid 14-of-35 showing from beyond the arc, the Blazers saw their two-game win streak snapped. With this victory, the Thunder secured the season series 3-1, clinching three straight wins over Portland. The Oklahoma City Thunder will next face the Golden State Warriors on 3rd January.
