Thunder Top Suns 125-114 Behind Gilgeous-Alexander’s 36

The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Phoenix Suns 125-114 at Paycom Center on October 27, 2026, using a decisive fourth-quarter run to remain unbeaten. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with 36 points and eight assists, while Jalen Williams added 24 points and Chet Holmgren finished with 20 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks.

Phoenix kept the game close for three quarters behind Devin Booker’s shot-making, but Oklahoma City’s depth and defensive pressure took over late. The Thunder opened the fourth quarter with a 19-4 run, turning a two-point deficit into a comfortable lead they never surrendered.

Match Overview

Oklahoma City shot 50.6% from the field and scored 28 fast-break points, taking advantage of 19 Phoenix turnovers. Gilgeous-Alexander was efficient from the midrange and repeatedly drew fouls on drives, finishing 12-of-13 from the free-throw line. Holmgren protected the rim and helped limit Phoenix’s interior scoring, while Williams provided a steady second option.

Booker led Phoenix with 33 points and six assists. Jalen Green added 24 points, and Dillon Brooks scored 14. The Suns shot 46.7% from the floor and made 15 three-pointers, but they were outscored 36-21 in the fourth quarter and struggled to contain Oklahoma City’s transition attack.

Key Moments

Phoenix led 93-91 entering the fourth quarter after Booker hit a contested three at the buzzer. Oklahoma City responded immediately, with Gilgeous-Alexander scoring eight points during a 19-4 run that included a Holmgren block and a Williams transition dunk. The Suns cut the lead to six with three minutes left, but Gilgeous-Alexander answered with a step-back jumper and two free throws to seal the win.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 36 points, 8 assists
• Jalen Williams: 24 points, 5 rebounds
• Chet Holmgren: 20 points, 10 rebounds, 4 blocks
• Devin Booker: 33 points, 6 assists

Tactical Story

Oklahoma City’s pressure defense forced Phoenix into early shot-clock decisions and created easy transition opportunities. The Thunder also used Holmgren as a defensive anchor, allowing their guards to gamble for steals on the perimeter. Phoenix’s three-point shooting kept the game close, but Oklahoma City’s ability to score at the rim and get to the free-throw line made the difference in the final period.

Season Impact

The win moved Oklahoma City to 3-0, reinforcing its status as one of the Western Conference’s most dangerous teams. Phoenix dropped to 1-2, despite another strong scoring night from Booker. For the Thunder, the victory highlighted the blend of star power, depth and defensive intensity that has defined their early-season form.