The Thunder strike back! In a thrilling NBA Cup showdown, the Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 123-119 victory over the Phoenix Suns on November 28, 2025, advancing to the knockout stage in style. But this game was about more than just the win.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the hero of the night, dropping a staggering 37 points and dishing out eight assists. With this performance, he extended his remarkable streak to 92 consecutive games with at least 20 points, tying the legendary Wilt Chamberlain for second place in NBA history. But here’s where it gets controversial: some argue that modern-day scoring is inflated compared to Chamberlain’s era, making this achievement less impressive. What’s your take on this?
The Thunder’s success wasn’t solely down to Gilgeous-Alexander. Chet Holmgren contributed 23 points and eight rebounds, and Jalen Williams, returning from wrist surgery, added 11 points and eight assists in 29 minutes. Williams’ resilience and determination to return to the court so quickly is a testament to his character and dedication to the team.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, with both teams trading blows from beyond the arc. Phoenix’s Collin Gillespie hit a crucial three-pointer to narrow the gap, but Gilgeous-Alexander responded with a clutch shot of his own, sealing the deal for the Thunder. And this is the part most people miss: the Thunder’s ability to maintain their composure and execute under pressure is a testament to their championship pedigree.
With this win, the Thunder became the fifth team in NBA history to start the season with a 19-1 record, joining an elite group. They now head to Portland for their next challenge, while the Suns return home to host Denver. Will the Thunder continue their dominant run? Share your predictions in the comments below!