NEW DELHI:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
delivered a stellar performance, leading the
Oklahoma City Thunder
to a resounding 129-107 victory over the visiting
Los Angeles Clippers
on Thursday. Gilgeous-Alexander, with 31 points and eight assists, spearheaded the Thunder's dominant display, guiding them to their third consecutive win.
The turning point came in the third quarter when Oklahoma City unleashed a blistering 20-5 run, turning a closely contested game into a commanding lead.
The Thunder's defensive intensity was on full display during this stretch, as they recorded seven blocks in the period and 11 overall, stifling the Clippers' offense and limiting them to just 30.8 percent shooting.
Jalen
Williams
played a crucial role in sparking Oklahoma City's run, contributing three blocks in the third quarter alone, including a pivotal rejection that led to a fastbreak dunk for Isaiah Joe. The Thunder's collective defensive effort disrupted the Clippers' rhythm and propelled them to a commanding lead heading into the final period.
While Gilgeous-Alexander led the scoring charge, the
Thunder
received significant contributions from their entire starting lineup, with all five starters finishing in double figures. Luguentz Dort scored 19 points, Williams added 18, Chet Holmgren contributed 17 points along with 10 rebounds, and Josh Giddey chipped in with 12 points.
Despite a strong start from the Clippers, led by
Kawhi Leonard
and Ivica Zubac, who combined for a perfect 7-for-7 shooting in the first quarter, Oklahoma City's relentless defense and balanced scoring ultimately proved too much to handle. Leonard led the
Clippers with 20 points, supported by
Norman Powell
's 19 points off the bench and
James Harden
's 17 points.
The Thunder's ability to capitalize on turnovers and dominate the fastbreak played a significant role in their victory, outscoring the Clippers 20-10 in transition points.
The game also marked the debut of Gordon Hayward for the Thunder, who was acquired at the trade deadline. Although Hayward finished scoreless, his presence on the court provided a boost for Oklahoma City.
With their third consecutive win and a season series victory over the Clippers, the Thunder continue to demonstrate their resilience and competitiveness, while the Clippers look to bounce back from a tough road defeat.
(Inputs from Reuters)
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