There were all the signs of a Thunder victory this season on Thursday night.
With 31 points, six rebounds, and six assists, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made 15 of 17 free throws, continuing a run of performances that supporters have been more excited about than accustomed to. Jalen Williams had an explosive fourth quarter. A Chet Holmgren block that changed the game.
In a heated shooting duel, the Jazz were defeated 134-129, requiring every advantage possible. Utah, who had just finished a six-game winning streak and had won 12 of their previous 14 games, rarely gave up. Lauri Markannen free throws and a massive slam by Collin Sexton. However, OKC overcame a two-game losing streak thanks to their smart late-game management and balanced scoring, as every starter scored at least 15 points.
End of 1Q: Thunder 39, Jazz 14 – OKC has already compelled six TOs from Utah. furthermore putting up 57.7% FG and 4 for 9 from three. SGA with 10-3-3 and Chet with 9 points (4-7) Cason Wallace is off to a strong start, scoring 8 points on 3 of 3 shots.
Half: Thunder 76, Jazz 67
In those last Jalen Williams minutes of that quarter, OKC cut the scoring deficit. He’s had a busy January. More often than I think Daigneault would want, Jazz is falling below the FT line. However, OKC had a very evenly distributed score. Every starter in the upper tens.
Final score of the third quarter: Thunder 98, Jazz 95 Utah outscored OKC 28–22. SGA spent a lot of that quarter attempting to find his way to the line. He is 13 for 15 from the FT line and has a 25-6-4 record.
