Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 32 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 125-112 in a battle of the Western Conference’s top teams.
Aaron Wiggins contributed 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Jalen Williams added 25 points for Oklahoma City (42-9), which extended its winning streak to five games. The Thunder now hold a 7.5-game lead over Memphis (35-17) in the standings.
Oklahoma City controlled the rebounding battle, securing a 55-40 advantage on the glass. That included 21 offensive boards, leading to 32 second-chance points. Isaiah Hartenstein led all players with 14 rebounds.
Desmond Bane paced the Grizzlies with 20 points, while Jaren Jackson Jr. finished with 19. Santi Aldama chipped in 18 off the bench, but Memphis saw its four-game winning streak come to an end.
The Thunder built an early lead, using their rebounding dominance and defensive pressure to disrupt Memphis. They led by 17 at halftime and maintained control throughout the second half.
Chet Holmgren did not play after returning from a 39-game absence on Friday. The Thunder opted to rest him on the second night of a back-to-back.
Memphis struggled to contain Oklahoma City’s attack, allowing 35 points in both the second and third quarters. The Grizzlies made a late push in the fourth but could not erase the deficit.
Ja Morant recorded 16 points and seven assists for Memphis, while rookie Zach Edey finished with five points in limited minutes. The Grizzlies were outscored in fast-break points and lost the turnover battle 13-8.
Alex Caruso added 14 points for the Thunder, who shot 42.9% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range. Wiggins was especially effective from deep, hitting 8-of-13 from beyond the arc.
Oklahoma City’s depth also played a crucial role, with Kenrich Williams and Jaylin Williams combining for 11 points and 16 rebounds off the bench. The Thunder outscored Memphis 45-36 from beyond the arc, further extending their lead.
