The Oklahoma City Thunder's incredible winning streak has reached 11 games, as they defeated the Phoenix Suns 123-119 on Friday night, improving their record to an astounding 19-1. This remarkable run not only propels them into the knockout stage of the NBA Cup but also places them among the all-time great NBA season starts — a feat only four other teams have achieved.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, pouring in 37 points and dishing out eight assists. His performance was especially electrifying in the closing moments, scoring 15 crucial points in the last seven minutes on an impressive 4-for-5 shooting, ensuring the Thunder maintained their slim lead against a determined Suns squad. This clutch play helped Oklahoma City finish undefeated in the West Group A at 4-0.
Adding to the Thunder's offensive firepower, rookie sensation Chet Holmgren contributed 23 points and pulled down eight rebounds, showcasing his growing impact on the team. Meanwhile, Jalen Williams made his return following wrist surgery, playing 29 minutes and managing 11 points alongside eight assists. Williams has battled back from a summer procedure that repaired a torn ligament and a subsequent surgery to remove an irritating screw—his comeback will be crucial for the Thunder as the season progresses.
One of the most jaw-dropping milestones came from Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency; he has now scored at least 20 points in 92 consecutive games, tying the legendary Wilt Chamberlain for the second-longest scoring streak in NBA history. The only player to surpass this is Chamberlain himself with 126 straight games, underscoring just how extraordinary Gilgeous-Alexander’s achievement is.
On the Suns’ side, Collin Gillespie led the attackers with 24 points, proving critical in their push to advance to the billionaire's round—the final eight teams of the competition. Devin Booker added 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Dillon Brooks chipped in with 19 points. The game was a thrilling back-and-forth affair, with both teams sinking 15 three-pointers each. The fourth quarter turned into a high-stakes shooting contest, as Phoenix repeatedly sliced the Thunder’s lead down to just one point. Although Gillespie’s three-pointer once brought the Suns within reach at 115-114, Gilgeous-Alexander quickly answered with a long-range shot of his own to push the score to 118-114, swinging momentum back to Oklahoma City.
Looking ahead, the Suns will face a challenging home game against Denver on Saturday night, while the Thunder head to Portland on Sunday night.
But here’s where it gets controversial: does the Thunder’s astonishing start this season signal the emergence of a new dynasty, or are they just riding a hot streak? And what will happen if Gilgeous-Alexander's scoring slip or the Suns find their rhythm in the next rounds? Are you convinced the Thunder can carry this momentum all the way, or is this just early-season hype? Share your thoughts in the comments below—because this debate is far from over!
