In a jaw-dropping showdown, the Oklahoma City Thunder added another feather to their cap by stunning the NBA’s best, the Boston Celtics, in a thrilling 127-123 victory on Tuesday night. This marks the Thunder’s eighth win in the last nine games, positioning them as the second-best team in the Western Conference with a record of 23-9.
The recent winning streak showcases the Thunder’s dominance, including impressive victories over the top teams in both conferences and the defending champion Denver Nuggets, beaten twice on the road. Despite having the second-youngest roster in the NBA, Oklahoma City is making a compelling case as a contender, boasting the league’s fourth-best record, third in net rating, fourth in defensive rating, and fifth in offensive rating.
Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis, acknowledging the Thunder’s prowess, stated, “They’ve been playing really well. They’re at the top of the West, no? So a really good team to go up against and a really good experience for us.”
The Thunder’s rising star, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, delivered another spectacular performance with 36 points, showcasing his scoring prowess. However, the Celtics made a late comeback bid, turning the game into a nail-biter in the final minutes.
Rookie of the Year front-runner Chet Holmgren, contributing with 14 points, 7 assists, and 4 blocks, emphasized the team’s focus on winning over individual achievements. Coach Mark Daigneault praised Gilgeous-Alexander’s versatility, noting his impact beyond scoring.
As the Thunder continue to climb the ranks, they remain grounded, acknowledging the lessons to be learned and the long journey ahead. The victory over the Celtics serves as a testament to the team’s resilience and their commitment to staying in the moment.
Explore the highlights of this thrilling NBA clash and witness the Oklahoma City Thunder’s remarkable ascent in the basketball world.
Image Source: Google
