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Thunder Beat Suns 120-107, Booker Blames Referee

4/23/2026

31 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Thunder Win

The Phoenix Suns lost 120-107 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 on April 22, 2026, falling 0-2 in series.
Devin Booker blamed referee James Williams after being fouled as a ball hit Jaylin Williams, finishing with 22 points on 7-of-14 shooting and six of the Suns’ 22 turnovers.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with 37 points, nine assists and 47% shooting on 91 attempts, prompting Dillon Brooks to blast the officiating.

Summary

Thunder Dominate

Jalen Williams left Game 2 with a left hamstring strain, casting doubt on his playoff availability.
The Thunder entered as 17.5-point favorites and built a 41-point lead by the end of the third quarter.
Oklahoma City maintained its perfect 10-0 first-round playoff record, winning by an average margin of 18.9 points.
The Thunder forced 21 turnovers while committing only 10, converting 22 points off the steals.

History

Historical Context

The NBA expanded its playoff format in 1984, increasing the number of participating teams from 12 to 16 and changing the first round to a best-of-five series. This shift intensified competition, exemplified by the Oklahoma City Thunder's perfect 10-0 first-round record. The change has since fostered a more dynamic playoff environment, significantly impacting team strategies and fan engagement.

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Thunder Win

The Phoenix Suns lost 120-107 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 on April 22, 2026, falling 0-2 in series.
Devin Booker blamed referee James Williams after being fouled as a ball hit Jaylin Williams, finishing with 22 points on 7-of-14 shooting and six of the Suns’ 22 turnovers.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with 37 points, nine assists and 47% shooting on 91 attempts, prompting Dillon Brooks to blast the officiating.

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