Cavaliers defeat Thunder 129-122, snapping Oklahoma City’s 15-game win streak in clash of NBA elites

CLEVELAND — In a thrilling showdown that highlighted the competition between the NBA’s top two teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers triumphed over the Oklahoma City Thunder with a score of 129-122, effectively halting the Thunder’s impressive 15-game winning streak. Jarrett Allen led the Cavaliers with 25 points, while Evan Mobley contributed 21 points to the victory on Wednesday night.

With this win, the Cavaliers extended their own winning streak to 11 games, boasting an outstanding record of 32-4 and remaining undefeated against Western Conference teams at 11-0. Their performance at home has been particularly strong, as they improved to 19-1 on their court. Notably, Cleveland managed to achieve this victory despite a subpar performance from Donovan Mitchell, the team’s leading scorer, who recorded only 11 points, making just 3 of 16 attempts from the field.

For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shined with 31 points, and Jalen Williams added 25 points in the team’s first defeat since December 1. The intensity of the game foreshadowed a potential Finals matchup, as there were a remarkable 30 lead changes, and neither team enjoyed a lead greater than nine points.

This game marked a rare occasion, being only the third time in NBA history that two teams with double-digit winning streaks faced off. The last similar matchup occurred on January 26, 1995, between the Seattle SuperSonics and the Utah Jazz, both of whom were riding 10-game winning streaks into their contest.

**Highlights from the Game**
For the Thunder, although Gilgeous-Alexander stands out as the team’s clear star, there were other notable contributions. Center Isaiah Hartenstein had a noteworthy performance, finishing the game with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists.
On the Cavaliers’ side, the team’s depth and balance were on full display, proving their ability to perform even when Mitchell is off his game. Mobley and Allen combined for a strong showing with 22 rebounds and 13 assists, while Darius Garland added 18 points, seven assists, and a critical floater to seal the game against the Thunder.

**Turning Point**
With the Cavaliers ahead 125-122 in the final moments, a crucial loose ball foul was called against Mitchell with just 1:19 remaining. However, the Cavaliers challenged the call, resulting in a reversal after a replay review. Following the decision, Mobley landed a 10-foot shot in the lane, increasing Cleveland’s lead to five points.

**Statistical Noteworthiness**
Through the first 36 games of the season, only four teams in NBA history have recorded a better record than Cleveland’s current standing: the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors (34-2), the 1966-67 Philadelphia 76ers (33-3), the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers (33-3), and the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls (33-3).

**Looking Ahead**
The Thunder will continue their four-game road trip with a matchup against the New York Knicks on Friday. The Cavaliers, after this significant victory, will host the Toronto Raptors on Thursday, aiming to keep their momentum going.