UPDATE: The Oklahoma City Thunder executed a breathtaking 33-4 run to defeat the Utah Jazz 144-112 in NBA Cup action on November 10, 2023. This victory marks their eighth consecutive win, improving their record to an impressive 16-1.
The Thunder, trailing by as many as 18 points in the first half, made history with the largest comeback win by any team that trailed by 15 or more points in the play-by-play era, which dates back to 1997-98. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge, scoring 31 points and demonstrating a remarkable turnaround from his earlier struggles with 3-point shooting.
The Thunder’s victory is significant for several reasons. They showcased their resilience by improving to 5-0 when trailing by double digits, the only team in the league without a loss in such scenarios. Gilgeous-Alexander hit all three of his 3-point attempts against the Jazz, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s top performers.
The game turned dramatically in the third quarter, where Oklahoma City outscored Utah 43-20. The Thunder’s defense was relentless, forcing a staggering 28 turnovers that translated into 44 points. This defensive pressure visibly frustrated the Jazz, who were unable to maintain their early momentum.
Isaiah Joe contributed with 16 points, while Jaylin Williams added a season-high 15 points, including five 3-pointers. The Thunder’s shooting was exceptional, hitting 61.4% from the field and a stunning 62.2% from beyond the arc, making 23 of 37 attempts.
Utah’s Keyonte George led his team with 20 points, and Lauri Markkanen contributed 19 points, but the Jazz fell to 5-10 overall and 0-3 in tournament play.
As the game progressed, Oklahoma City closed the gap entering halftime, trailing just 68-67. Coach Mark Daigneault was assessed a technical foul for arguing a non-call just before the halftime buzzer, underscoring the high stakes of the matchup.
This sensational comeback not only highlights the Thunder’s capabilities but also sets the stage for their upcoming games. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Oklahoma City can maintain their winning streak and continue to dominate the league.
Stay tuned for further updates as the NBA season unfolds, with the Thunder proving to be a formidable contender in the ongoing NBA Cup.
