Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Extends 20-Point Streak as Thunder Win Eighth Straight

OKLAHOMA CITY (AFP) – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his record-breaking streak of games with at least 20 points, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to their eighth consecutive victory with a 116-103 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who surpassed Wilt Chamberlain’s long-standing record of consecutive 20-point games on Thursday, finished with 20 points, 10 assists and three rebounds. Yet, reaching the milestone required a late push, as he scored 10 of his points in the fourth quarter after struggling with his shot throughout the game. He converted a crucial and-1 play with 1:46 remaining to secure the streak, which now stands at 128 games ESPN.

Thunder Overcome Timberwolves in Tight Contest

Despite a unhurried start and shooting 7-for-22 from the field, Gilgeous-Alexander’s overall contribution helped propel the Thunder to victory. The Oklahoma City bench proved pivotal, contributing 61 points, including 20 from Isaiah Joe and 17 from Alex Caruso.

“At the end of the day this is basketball,” Gilgeous-Alexander said after the game. “I went out on the court with the same aggressiveness as every night. Today they missed more shots than I usually miss, and normally that’s not the case. Some nights things head in your favor and other nights they don’t. But, regardless, I feel like I contributed enough for our team to get the W (victory), and that’s the first thing: get out of here with a win.”

Dominating Western Conference Standings

The win improves the Thunder’s record to 53-15, extending their lead atop the Western Conference standings. They are now three and a half games ahead of the San Antonio Spurs, who have a record of 49-18 ESPN.

The Minnesota Timberwolves fell to 41-27 and remain in sixth place in the West. Julius Randle led Minnesota with 32 points, while Anthony Edwards added 19 and Ayo Dosunmu contributed 18 off the bench.

Game Recap

Minnesota gained an early advantage, leading 53-47 at halftime. However, the Thunder rallied with a 33-23 third quarter and continued their momentum in the fourth, outscoring the Timberwolves by nine points to seal the victory. Oklahoma City forced 22 turnovers while committing only seven, and attempted 101 shots to Minnesota’s 77 ESPN.

The Thunder’s winning streak now stands at eight games The Oklahoman.