Jalen Williams exploded for 28 points, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 26 points, seven assists, and six rebounds as the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Utah Jazz, 133-106, on Tuesday night.
The victory secured the Thunder’s spot in the NBA Cup quarterfinals after finishing West Group B play with a 3-1 record.
Oklahoma City’s balanced attack was on full display. Isaiah Joe came off the bench to deliver 19 points, while Aaron Wiggins contributed 16 in a game where the Thunder’s depth shone. The group clinched first place in the standings later that evening when Phoenix defeated San Antonio.
Thunder Turn It On Early
Utah started strong, building a 19-10 lead behind Collin Sexton’s three-point play. But the Thunder quickly responded, closing the first quarter with a 22-6 run that gave them a 32-25 edge. Joe fueled the momentum shift, scoring eight points during the stretch, including two three-pointers and an electrifying left-handed dunk.
From that point on, Oklahoma City never looked back. Gilgeous-Alexander, who was named Western Conference Player of the Month earlier in the day, scored 15 of his 26 points in the second half, helping the Thunder extend their lead to as many as 30 points.
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Utah’s Turnover Woes
Turnovers plagued the Jazz throughout the game, with Utah committing a staggering 29 turnovers, 19 of which came in the first half alone. Oklahoma City capitalized, converting those mistakes into transition opportunities and points. By contrast, the Thunder played a disciplined game, recording only eight turnovers.
Collin Sexton led the Jazz with 17 points, while Walker Kessler and John Collins each contributed 15. However, the offensive production wasn’t enough to overcome their miscues.
A Tale of Two Teams
For the Thunder, this game highlighted their rise as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. Gilgeous-Alexander continued his MVP-caliber play, while Williams solidified his role as a key offensive weapon. Oklahoma City’s depth also proved crucial, with reserves like Joe and Wiggins stepping up to provide critical contributions.
Utah, on the other hand, struggled to find rhythm. Isaiah Hartenstein, who had been a bright spot for the Jazz in recent games, was limited to just four points and five rebounds, snapping a streak of six consecutive double-doubles. The Jazz’s record now stands at 4-17, leaving them with significant work to do as they look to rebuild.
Key Stats and Moments
The Thunder’s efficiency and defensive pressure defined the game. They held the Jazz to just 45% shooting while forcing the high turnover count. Joe’s first-quarter performance and Gilgeous-Alexander’s second-half surge were pivotal in securing the win.
Despite Utah’s early lead, Oklahoma City quickly seized control, using their defensive intensity to stifle the Jazz’s offense. By halftime, the Thunder had built a 20-point advantage and never allowed Utah to mount a serious comeback.
Up Next
The Thunder will look to continue their momentum when they visit Toronto on Thursday, while the Jazz aim to bounce back in Portland on Friday. With the NBA Cup quarterfinals looming, Oklahoma City appears poised to make a deep run, bolstered by their dynamic duo of Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams.
For the Jazz, the focus shifts to development and minimizing mistakes as they navigate a challenging season.
