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Thunder Defeat Trail Blazers 118-108: January 26, 2025, Game Recap
The NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder secured another victory, defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 118-108 on Sunday night. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 33 points, helping the Thunder bounce back from their previous loss against Dallas.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads the Thunder
Gilgeous-Alexander continues his dominant season, putting up 33 points and keeping the Thunder at the top of the NBA standings. His ability to control the game on both ends of the floor was key in securing the win.
Jalen Williams’ All-Around Performance
Jalen Williams contributed 24 points and eight assists, providing crucial support to Gilgeous-Alexander. His banked 3-pointer in the fourth quarter helped Oklahoma City regain control after Portland’s late-game surge.
Isaiah Hartenstein’s Double-Double Impact
Isaiah Hartenstein finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds, solidifying Oklahoma City’s presence in the paint. His ability to grab key rebounds and finish efficiently played a pivotal role in the Thunder’s offensive execution.
Deni Avdija’s Standout Night for Portland
Despite the loss, Deni Avdija showcased his skill set with 28 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. His versatility and scoring ability kept the Trail Blazers competitive throughout the game.
Key Moment: Thunder’s Dominant Second Quarter
Oklahoma City took control in the second quarter, outscoring Portland 39-27. Their defensive intensity and efficient scoring helped them build a lead they never relinquished.
Key Stats Breakdown
- Points in the Paint: Thunder 52 – 22 Trail Blazers
- Second-Chance Points: Thunder 28 – 13 Trail Blazers
Takeaways
Oklahoma City Thunder: Defensive Excellence
The Thunder lead the NBA in steals for the second straight season, thanks to the defensive prowess of their star players. Coach Mark Daigneault credits this success to the team’s elite defensive personnel.
Portland Trail Blazers: Donovan Clingan’s Return
Rookie center Donovan Clingan has struggled with injuries but made a strong impact since returning. After securing 13 rebounds and four blocks against Charlotte, his presence remains crucial for Portland moving forward.
What’s Next?
- Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder face the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night.
- Portland Trail Blazers: The Trail Blazers host the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Thunder defeat Trail Blazers?
The Thunder defeat Trail Blazers 118-108 behind a stellar 33-point performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Oklahoma City’s strong second quarter and dominant inside scoring sealed the win.
Who were the key players in the Thunder defeat Trail Blazers?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 33 points, while Jalen Williams contributed 24 points and eight assists. For Portland, Deni Avdija had a standout game with 28 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds.
What was the turning point in the Thunder’s win over the Trail Blazers?
The Thunder outscored the Trail Blazers 39-27 in the second quarter, giving Oklahoma City a lead that Portland couldn’t recover from.
What was the Thunder’s biggest advantage over the Trail Blazers?
In addition to their dominance in the paint, the Thunder held a 28-13 edge in second-chance points, capitalizing on offensive rebounds.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. All stats and game details are accurate as of January 26, 2025. For official NBA updates, visit NBA.onesports.ph
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