Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a career-best performance, scoring 54 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder (36-7) defeated the Utah Jazz (10-32) 123-114 on Wednesday night.
Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, making 17 of 35 field goals and converting 17 of 18 free throws. He also contributed eight rebounds, five assists, and three steals, surpassing his previous career-high of 45 points.
Jalen Williams added 25 points for Oklahoma City, helping the Thunder secure their 36th win of the season. The Thunder are tied with Cleveland for the best record in the league.
The Jazz, led by John Collins’ 22 points and 12 rebounds, hung tough throughout the game. Collin Sexton chipped in with 18 points and nine assists, while Walker Kessler added a double-double with 17 points and 15 rebounds.
Utah trailed by just two at halftime, with Oklahoma City holding a 57-55 lead. Gilgeous-Alexander’s 18 points in the third quarter extended the Thunder’s advantage to 95-89 heading into the fourth.
Despite a strong effort from Utah, Gilgeous-Alexander returned in the final minutes to seal the game. His clutch three-pointer gave Oklahoma City a 115-106 lead, cementing the Thunder’s victory and his historic night.
Utah capitalized on their size advantage, out-rebounding the Thunder 52-39 and scoring 31 second-chance points off 23 offensive boards. However, Oklahoma City forced 27 turnovers, turning them into 39 points to maintain control.
The Thunder overcame injuries to key players like Isaiah Hartenstein, who was unavailable, while the Jazz missed Jordan Clarkson and Taylor Hendricks. Both teams faced challenges but showed resilience.
