Oklahoma City Thunder Dominate Milwaukee Bucks, 121-105, Behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 31 Points

The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their impressive run in the Western Conference, securing a commanding 121-105 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 31 points and eight assists, helping the Thunder win for the 10th time in their last 11 games.

Thunder’s Depth Shines Despite Missing Key Players

Even without starters Jalen Williams and Luguentz Dort, who were both sidelined with hip injuries, Oklahoma City showcased its depth. Isaiah Hartenstein had a career night, scoring 24 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, while Isaiah Joe added 19 points off the bench. Chet Holmgren contributed 16 points and eight rebounds, rounding out a well-balanced team performance.

Bucks Struggle Despite Giannis’ Triple-Double

Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded his 52nd career triple-double with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, but it wasn’t enough to keep the Bucks in the game. Damian Lillard chipped in 19 points, though he struggled from the field, shooting just 3-of-9.

The Thunder took control early in the second quarter and never looked back, leading by as many as 25 points. Oklahoma City shot an efficient 51.7% from the field, while their suffocating defense held Milwaukee to just 39.8% shooting.

Game-Changing Moment

With 4:42 left in the second quarter, Antetokounmpo threw down a dunk to cut the Thunder’s lead to 46-41. But from that point, Milwaukee went ice cold, failing to score for nearly eight minutes. The Thunder capitalized, going on a 13-0 run to push the lead to 59-41, a deficit the Bucks never recovered from.

Bucks Post Season-Low First-Half Points

Milwaukee’s offense struggled mightily, posting their lowest first-half point total of the season with just 41 points at halftime. They were outscored 29-15 in the second quarter, tying their worst second-quarter scoring output of the year.

What’s Next?

The Bucks will try to bounce back on Tuesday when they visit the Golden State Warriors, kicking off a tough five-game road trip against Western Conference teams. Meanwhile, the Thunder will look to keep their momentum going when they host the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday.

With the win, Oklahoma City solidifies its spot atop the Western Conference standings, proving they are a legitimate contender as the playoffs approach.