The Phoenix Suns visited the Paycom Center on Wednesday night to face the OKC Thunder in a crucial matchup. Phoenix aimed to break a two-game losing streak, while Oklahoma City sought a third consecutive win. So how did the game Suns vs Thunder graduate?
Coach Mike Budenholzer was without Kevin Durant due to an ankle injury, sparking rumors about his future. The Suns’ starting lineup included Tyus Jones, Devin Booker, Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, and Nick Richards. Meanwhile, coach Mark Daigneault’s Thunder started Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Aaron Wiggins, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Isaiah Hartenstein. Chet Holmgren remained sidelined with a hip injury.
The Suns vs Thunder battle began with a competitive first quarter, ending 37-33 in favor of OKC. Phoenix, missing Durant, relied on O’Neale, who stepped up in his absence. The Suns started the second quarter strong, going on a 17-4 run to take a nine-point lead. They extended it to 10 points at the 2:33 mark, but the Thunder fought back. Led by Gilgeous-Alexander, they closed the half on an 11-3 run, trailing 63-61.
The third quarter was the turning point in the Suns vs Thunder showdown. Oklahoma City completely dominated, outscoring Phoenix 43-16. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, finishing with 50 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals. The game was effectively over entering the fourth quarter.
Aaron Wiggins contributed 17 points, while Jalen Williams had 13 points, four rebounds, and three assists. Jaylin Williams grabbed 12 rebounds off the bench, and Isaiah Joe chipped in 12 points. Meanwhile, Bradley Beal led Phoenix with 25 points off the bench. Devin Booker struggled, scoring just 19 points, while Royce O’Neale added 18 points.
The Thunder sealed a dominant 140-109 win, improving to a Western Conference-best 40-9 record. The Suns dropped to 25-25, sitting 10th in the standings. Despite a promising first half, Phoenix had no answer for Oklahoma City’s explosive offense. The Suns vs Thunder matchup proved to be a statement win for OKC, further solidifying their dominance.