Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 35 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists in a dominant Oklahoma City Thunder win over the Atlanta Hawks, 128-104, on Sunday. The Thunder extended their season-opening streak to three wins as they took control in the fourth quarter, outscoring Atlanta 39-18 and securing a decisive victory in front of a supportive home crowd.
Gilgeous-Alexander came close to his third career triple-double, setting the tone with efficient shooting and defensive play that included three steals and three blocks. Chet Holmgren added a strong 25 points, nine rebounds, and six blocks, while Jalen Williams contributed 20 points and nine boards, helping the Thunder pull away in the game’s final minutes.
Oklahoma City trailed 58-50 in the second quarter but responded with a late rally to cut the deficit to one by halftime. They maintained that momentum into the fourth quarter, turning a narrow 92-91 lead into a double-digit advantage with a 13-0 run led by Gilgeous-Alexander’s clutch scoring. The Hawks struggled to respond during the Thunder’s surge, going over three minutes without a field goal and losing grip on the game.
Atlanta’s Trae Young, who had recorded over 30 points and 10 assists in each of his first two games, was held to 24 points on 14 shots as Oklahoma City’s defense kept him in check. French rookie Zacharie Risacher added 13 points and six rebounds, while Garrison Mathews contributed 14 points off the bench, yet Atlanta could not find answers for the Thunder’s offense.
The Thunder capitalized on their interior presence, converting 28 of 49 attempts inside the arc and heating up from three-point range after establishing a solid lead. Oklahoma City’s defensive control, led by Holmgren’s rim protection and Gilgeous-Alexander’s play on both ends, limited the Hawks to just six field goals in the final quarter.
