Oklahoma City, Jan 13, 2024 – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive 37-point performance led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 112-100 win over the Orlando Magic on Saturday night, tying them with Minnesota for the Western Conference lead. Gilgeous-Alexander achieved his high-scoring feat without a single 3-pointer, focusing instead on his efficiency inside the arc and at the free-throw line.
The Thunder’s victory was aided by Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, who scored 16 and 15 points respectively, bringing their season record to an impressive 27-11. Holmgren’s performance was particularly noteworthy in the first regular-season matchup between the top two picks of the 2022 draft, with Holmgren, the second overall pick, going head-to-head with last season’s Rookie of the Year and No. 1 pick, Paolo Banchero.
Banchero led the Magic with 20 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. However, Orlando’s lineup was significantly weakened due to injuries, missing key players like Franz Wagner, Wendell Carter Jr., Markelle Fultz, Gary Harris, and Joe Ingles.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s dominant first half, where he scored 22 points, was instrumental in giving the Thunder a 49-40 lead at the break. His performance included a notable moment where he stole the ball and then scored from an awkward angle while drawing a foul.
Jalen Williams also provided a highlight with a long-range shot just inside halfcourt at the end of the third quarter, extending Oklahoma City’s lead to 86-73. The Thunder maintained a comfortable lead throughout the remainder of the game, never allowing the Magic to close the gap to less than six points.
Looking ahead, the Magic will face the New York Knicks on Monday night, while the Thunder are set to take on the Los Angeles Lakers.
