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Thunder Beat Suns 120-107, Lead Series 2-0

4/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Phoenix Suns 120-107 at Paycom Center, taking a 2-0 series lead.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander responded with 37 points and nine assists as Oklahoma City forced 21 turnovers and shot 47.3%.
Phoenix forward Dillon Brooks scored 30 points before fouling out in the fourth quarter.
Thunder forward Jalen Williams left in the third quarter with a left hamstring injury after contributing 19 points.

History

Historical Context

The Chicago Bulls won their sixth NBA championship in 1998, defeating the Utah Jazz 4-2 in the Finals. Michael Jordan, who scored 45 points in Game 6, was named Finals MVP, marking the end of the Bulls' dynasty. This era, characterized by intense competition and high viewership, set a precedent for future NBA playoff dynamics, influencing teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder.

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Story summary

The Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Phoenix Suns 120-107 at Paycom Center, taking a 2-0 series lead.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander responded with 37 points and nine assists as Oklahoma City forced 21 turnovers and shot 47.3%.
Phoenix forward Dillon Brooks scored 30 points before fouling out in the fourth quarter.
Thunder forward Jalen Williams left in the third quarter with a left hamstring injury after contributing 19 points.

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