Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 47-point performance propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 114-110 overtime win against the Detroit Pistons on Monday night.
Gilgeous-Alexander, a strong candidate to repeat as league MVP, made 12 of 19 field goals and 21 of 25 free throws. He now holds the NBA record for consecutive games with at least 20 points, extending it to 136.
Thunder Secure 60th Win
The Thunder’s victory was their 60th of the season, making them the first team in the league to reach that milestone. This is the first time Oklahoma City has won at least that many in back-to-back seasons. The Thunder’s 15th win in 16 games keeps them two games ahead of the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference standings.
Oklahoma City, fresh off a win against the New York Knicks on Sunday night, appeared sluggish against the Pistons. Detroit, despite missing four of their five regular starters, put up a strong fight.
Cade Cunningham remained sidelined with a collapsed lung. All-Star Jalen Duren was out with a right knee injury, while Tobias Harris and Duncan Robinson were absent due to right hip injuries. Isaiah Stewart, a key reserve, also missed the game with a left calf strain.
Pistons’ Fightback Falls Short
Detroit, who had won five of six without Cunningham, kept the game close. Paul Reed scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Javonte Green contributed 19 points, and Kevin Huerter added 17 for the Pistons.
The Thunder led 79-74 going into the fourth quarter. Detroit rallied, with Daniss Jenkins’ 3-pointer putting the Pistons ahead 97-90 with just under four minutes remaining.
Gilgeous-Alexander Seals the Win
Gilgeous-Alexander responded with six straight points to narrow the deficit to 97-96. Jaylin Williams, after missing his first five shots, then hit a corner 3-pointer to tie the game at 99.
With the score tied at 101, Detroit had possession in the closing seconds, but Gilgeous-Alexander stole the ball. Gilgeous-Alexander looked to have hit a 3-pointer to give Oklahoma City the lead, but he was called for an offensive foul. Jenkins then missed a deep 3 at the buzzer, sending the game into overtime.
Gilgeous-Alexander then scored eight of Oklahoma City’s 13 points in the extra five minutes to seal the victory.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 47 points.
- The Thunder secured their 60th win of the season.
- The Pistons were missing four of their five regular starters.
The Pistons will host the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday. The Thunder are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday.