Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Thunder Past Bulls Behind Devastating 22-0 Run (131-113)

OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma City Thunder defeated Chicago Bulls 131-113 on Friday night in NBA action, powered by 25 points from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a dominant 22-0 run in the second half that completely shifted the game's momentum.

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The Canadian point guard didn't have one of his most efficient shooting nights, converting 8 of his 24 attempts, but still surpassed the 20-point mark and extended his streak of consecutive games scoring 20 or more points to 134 games, setting a new record.

Oklahoma City's offense found support from several teammates. Cason Wallace contributed 21 points, while Jalen Williams delivered a complete performance in his return to Paycom Center, posting 18 points, eight assists, and six rebounds. It was his first home game since January 13, after missing most of the past two months with a right hip injury.

The team coached by Mark Daigneault also played without All-Star power forward Chet Holmgren, sidelined by a right hip contusion. Still, the home team found collective solutions to maintain offensive production and finished the game shooting 46.5% from the field.

Chicago competed solidly throughout the first half. Collin Sexton led the visiting offense with 16 points before halftime and helped the Bulls take a 67-62 lead into the break. Sexton finished with 22 points, while Tre Jones added 21 and Isaac Okoro chipped in 20.

However, the game changed completely after halftime. Oklahoma City began chipping away at the deficit until a three-pointer by Jaylin Williams gave the Thunder a 89-88 advantage. From that point on, the home team unleashed a stretch of absolute dominance.

The Thunder closed the third quarter with a 15-0 run that gave them a 95-88 lead heading into the final period. That momentum extended into a devastating 22-0 run overall that pushed the score to 102-80, while Chicago went nearly seven minutes without scoring.

Former Oklahoma City player Josh Giddey had a difficult night against his old team. He finished with five points after making just 1 of 11 field goal attempts, though he distributed 11 assists and committed five turnovers.

The victory allows Oklahoma City to bounce back from their loss in Boston, which had ended their 12-game winning streak.