The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Golden State Warriors 104-97 in NBA action, powered by 27 points from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The victory marks the Thunder's fifth consecutive win and makes them the first team in the league to reach 50 wins this season.
The Canadian point guard was once again the offensive engine for the Thunder, though this time his production came largely from the free throw line. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shot 6 of 15 from the field but compensated with 14 of 15 from the free throw line. With his performance, he reached 125 consecutive games scoring at least 20 points, falling just one short of Wilt Chamberlain's historic record, which he could tie on Monday at home against Denver.
Oklahoma City controlled the first half and went into halftime with a 67-54 advantage, thanks to 13 points from Kenrich Williams and 12 from Gilgeous-Alexander. For Golden State, Gui Santos kept his team in the game with 14 points in the first half, maintaining the Warriors' competitiveness.
After halftime, the Golden State Warriors responded and managed to tie the score in the third quarter. A three-pointer by Malevy Leons tied it at 77-77 with just over four minutes remaining in the period. Still, Oklahoma City regained control and closed the quarter with an 86-83 advantage.
The game was decided in the final moments. With the Thunder leading 99-97, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hit a three-pointer with Draymond Green defending with 42.4 seconds remaining, extending the lead to five points and securing the home victory.
Beyond Gilgeous-Alexander's 27 points, Isaiah Joe contributed 18 points and Jaylin Williams recorded 9 points and 14 rebounds for Oklahoma City.
For the Warriors, Gui Santos was the most productive player with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while Brandin Podziemski added 17 points and Draymond Green finished with 16 points. The Golden State team struggled offensively and finished the game shooting 40.9% from the field.
The matchup also featured several notable absences on both sides. Golden State Warriors played without Stephen Curry, who missed his thirteenth consecutive game due to right knee soreness. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City Thunder was without Chet Holmgren (illness), Jalen Williams (right hamstring strain), and Isaiah Hartenstein (left calf contusion).
The victory maintains Oklahoma City Thunder's excellent form, which is 5-0 since Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's return from an abdominal strain and continues to lead the NBA with the league's best record.
Oklahoma City will face Denver Nuggets next at home, where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will have the opportunity to tie Wilt Chamberlain's historic record of 126 consecutive games scoring at least 20 points.