In a stunning display of talent, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a commanding 122-102 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks in Milwaukee. With an impressive tally of 40 points, 11 assists, and 7 rebounds, Gilgeous-Alexander not only showcased his skills but also demonstrated why he is the reigning MVP. Despite being hampered by injuries to key players, including Jalen Williams, Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, Aaron Wiggins, and Jaylin Williams, the Thunder managed to clinch their seventh win in eight games on Wednesday night.
Gilgeous-Alexander was nothing short of extraordinary, hitting 16 out of 19 shots from the floor. This performance is noteworthy as it marks only the second occurrence since the 1980-81 NBA season that a player has achieved at least 40 points and 10 assists while maintaining a shooting percentage of 80% or higher. Interestingly, the previous day, Toronto's Immanuel Quickley had accomplished the same feat against the Golden State Warriors.
Supporting Gilgeous-Alexander, Ajay Mitchell contributed significantly with 18 points in the first half before exiting the game due to a hip bruise. Kenrich Williams also matched that scoring output, helping the Thunder shoot an impressive 54.4% from the field overall.
On the opposing side, Giannis Antetokounmpo put forth a strong effort for the Bucks with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists. However, Milwaukee's roster was thin, missing Myles Turner due to a sprained left ankle and Kevin Porter Jr. with a strained oblique. Coach Doc Rivers described Turner's status as day-to-day, while he indicated that Porter would be out for a significant period.
Porter's absence paved the way for Cole Anthony, who stepped up with 17 points off the bench, while Bobby Portis added 15 points along with a career-high nine assists. Remarkably, the Bucks’ bench scored a total of 46 points, yet it wasn’t enough to overcome the Thunder's dominance.
The Thunder seized control right from the start, scoring the first seven points of the game and never allowing the Bucks to regain momentum. This match concluded a four-game road trip for Oklahoma City, finishing with a commendable 3-1 record. Meanwhile, Milwaukee struggled early, committing eight turnovers in the first quarter alone, which allowed the Thunder to establish a significant lead of 38-18. As the game progressed, the Thunder maintained a comfortable margin, leading by as many as 25 points at one stage.
