Shai Leads Oklahoma City Thunder Past Phoenix Suns with Dominant Sweep (131-122) [4-0]

PHOENIX. Oklahoma City Thunder defeated Phoenix Suns 131-122 and closed out the first-round playoff series with a dominant 4-0 sweep. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again made the difference with 31 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed 24 points and 12 rebounds in another offensive showcase by the Western Conference leaders.

box score

The Thunder came out determined not to extend the series and found their rhythm on offense early. Phoenix responded with outside accuracy in the opening minutes, led by Collin Gillespie, who had a flawless first half with 17 points and five three-pointers. However, Oklahoma City answered blow for blow with quick ball movement and excellent perimeter shooting.

At halftime, the visiting team led 75-67 after shooting a spectacular 61.4% from the field and 12 of 20 from three-point range. Gilgeous-Alexander had already accumulated 17 points before the break, closing the half with another made three-pointer. Alex Caruso also provided early momentum with three three-pointers in the first quarter.

Phoenix Suns tried to get back into the game after halftime. Devin Booker took over offensively and scored 12 points in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 106-98 heading into the final period. A comeback window seemed to be opening, but Oklahoma City Thunder responded every time the opponent threatened.

In the decisive stretch, a corner three-pointer by Cason Wallace made it 120-106 with 5:54 remaining, and shortly after Gilgeous-Alexander executed a brilliant layup through three defenders to shut down any local comeback attempt. The Western Conference leaders managed the final minutes with maturity to seal the victory.

Beyond Shai's 31 points, Holmgren finished with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Isaiah Hartenstein added 18 points and 12 boards. Ajay Mitchell contributed 22 points with four three-pointers. For Phoenix, Booker finished with 24 points, while Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green each contributed 23.

Oklahoma City Thunder extends a perfect 12-0 record in first-round series over the last three seasons and awaits their Western Conference semifinal opponent from the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets matchup. Phoenix Suns, meanwhile, has now suffered ten consecutive playoff losses dating back to 2023.