OKLAHOMA CITY — With a commanding performance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander racked up 27 points propelling the Oklahoma City Thunder to a decisive 118-99 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday night, capturing a 2-0 advantage in their first-round playoff matchup.
Following an impressive 131-80 win on Sunday during the series opener, the Thunder showcased their momentum by starting strong against a Memphis team determined to prove itself. Oklahoma City initiated the game with a remarkable 9-0 run, holding Memphis scoreless for over three minutes as the Grizzlies missed their first 10 attempts.
The Thunder dominated, leading 32-17 by the end of the opening quarter, and maintained their lead throughout the game.
“We never underestimate our opponent,” Gilgeous-Alexander remarked. “They’re a very good team; otherwise, they wouldn’t be here. Our goal was to set the tone right from the first quarter.”
Supporting Gilgeous-Alexander’s effort, Jalen Williams contributed 24 points, while Chet Holmgren added 20 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks.
Despite a rough shooting night for Gilgeous-Alexander, who made only 10 of his 29 attempts, Oklahoma City’s offense thrived. “Everyone on the court played with confidence and the right mindset,” stated Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. “In this series, different players will shine on different nights.”
Oklahoma City has consistently defeated Memphis by double figures in their six encounters this season.
Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 26 points, while Ja Morant added 23 in the pressing contest for Memphis, who will now host Game 3 on Thursday.
Initially struggling with his shot in the series’ first five quarters, Gilgeous-Alexander found his rhythm in the second quarter, drilling two consecutive three-pointers, expanding the Thunder’s lead to 55-38. The team set a playoff record with 12 three-pointers by halftime, ending the second quarter ahead, 70-52.
Memphis began the third with intensity, narrowing the Thunder’s lead to single digits. However, Oklahoma City maintained a 90-79 lead going into the fourth.
Memphis’s interim coach, Tuomas Iisalo, noted, “Our competitive edge really showed in the third quarter. But against such a strong team, we need consistent effort from start to finish. Our attack mindset must be unwavering.”
Exciting the crowd, Oklahoma City’s Cason Wallace performed a baseline one-handed dunk after outmaneuvering Zach Edey, increasing the Thunder’s lead to 97-79.
Memphis was held scoreless for nearly four minutes at the start of the fourth quarter, marking the second consecutive game they failed to reach 100 points.
The Thunder’s decisive performances have set the stage for a challenging battle in the upcoming game.