Gilgeous-Alexander Rallies Thunder Past Cavaliers
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put up 42 points and eight assists to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder past the Cleveland Cavaliers 124-116 on Wednesday night. The victory gave Oklahoma City its second win over Cleveland in three nights, following a 117-112 win on Monday where Gilgeous-Alexander also led the charge with 43 points.
A Shuffled Roster Holds the Line
The Thunder improved to 6-2 overall through a demanding stretch that tested the team's depth. Oklahoma City has gone 3-2 since losing three starters to long-term injuries. Ajay Mitchell stepped up with 23 points, and rookie Bennett Stirtz added 16 points, hitting four of seven shots from beyond the arc to help weather intense fourth-quarter pressure from Cleveland.
Oklahoma City built a commanding 115-102 lead with just 1:47 remaining on the clock. That advantage vanished quickly when Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell caught fire from distance. Mitchell hit three consecutive 3-pointers, slicing the deficit to 117-111 with 46.7 seconds left. Yet the early cushion, built on Gilgeous-Alexander’s efficient 15-of-19 performance from the foul line and five 3-pointers, proved just enough to secure the win.
Shifting Momentum in Cleveland
The game featured drastic momentum swings. Oklahoma City controlled the first half, pushing its lead to as many as 25 points midway through the second quarter. Cleveland chipped away immediately, closing the half on a 19-10 run to narrow the gap to 60-44.
The Cavaliers carried that energy into the third quarter, scoring the first nine points—seven of them from James Harden—to pull within 60-53. Harden finished the night with 19 points for Cleveland, while teammate Evan Mobley recorded 16 points and 10 rebounds. Despite the relentless push from the home side, the Thunder repeatedly found answers through Stirtz and Mitchell.
Looking Ahead to Friday Night
With this hard-fought road series behind them, both teams face quick turnarounds. The Cavaliers host Philadelphia on Friday night, while the Thunder travel to play at Memphis.
Earlier coverage: Thunder Edge Thriller Against Cavaliers in Close Battle Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
