Key Takeaways:
- Oklahoma City Thunder matched the best 25-game start in NBA history by defeating the Phoenix Suns 138-89
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with 28 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed 24 points and eight rebounds
- The Suns suffered their heaviest defeat in franchise history, recording a season-low points total and shooting 39.3% from the field
Record-Breaking Start for Oklahoma City
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tallied 28 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder powered past the Phoenix Suns with a 138-89 demolition in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday night in Oklahoma City. This victory saw the Thunder tie the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors for the best-ever 25-game start to an NBA season, taking their record to 24-1. The win also marked Oklahoma City’s 16th consecutive triumph, setting a new franchise record and propelling them into Saturday’s semifinal clash with the San Antonio Spurs.
Strong start, strong finish 💪 pic.twitter.com/fBi5nmyfdU
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) December 11, 2025
Match Analysis: Defensive Dominance and Offensive Precision
Despite expectations of a challenging contest – the Thunder had previously edged Phoenix 123-119 in group play on 28 November, their closest result during the current win streak – Oklahoma City showcased comprehensive control from the outset. Phoenix were without their star, Devin Booker, for a third straight game due to a right groin strain. Booker had recorded 21 points in their last encounter and previously acknowledged the strength of the Thunder’s defence.
The Suns found themselves stifled offensively, registering just 39.3% shooting from the field and producing their lowest points total this season. Dillon Brooks was Phoenix’ top scorer with 16 points but struggled for efficiency, converting only 4 of his 16 attempts. The Thunder’s defensive effort ensured Phoenix endured the most lopsided defeat in their history, while Oklahoma City allowed a season-low in points.
| Team | Points | Field Goal % | Top Scorer | Win/Loss Streak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City Thunder | 138 | 59.1% | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (28) | 16 Wins |
| Phoenix Suns | 89 | 39.3% | Dillon Brooks (16) | Heaviest Defeat in Franchise History |
Player Performances and Key Moments
Chet Holmgren added 24 points and eight rebounds for the Thunder, further establishing himself as a vital contributor during the streak. Jalen Williams provided a momentum shift with a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer, handing Oklahoma City a commanding 74-48 advantage at the break. Gilgeous-Alexander scored 17 first-half points on just eight field goal attempts, underlining his efficiency. With a breakaway dunk with 9:15 remaining in the third quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander extended his remarkable run to 96 consecutive games with at least 20 points, pushing the Thunder’s lead to 84-50.
Disciplinary Incident: Grayson Allen Ejection
Tensions escalated in the third quarter when Phoenix guard Grayson Allen, involved in a collision as Holmgren attempted to set a screen, shoved Holmgren to the floor. Allen was cited for a Flagrant 2 foul and ejected with 5:18 remaining in the quarter, at which point the Thunder led 94-58.
Next Fixtures for Both Teams
The Thunder will proceed to the NBA Cup semifinals on Saturday in Las Vegas, where they will face the San Antonio Spurs. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday.
