URGENT UPDATE: The Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off a stunning comeback with a jaw-dropping 33-4 run, defeating the Utah Jazz 144-112 on November 10, 2023, in NBA Cup play. This victory marks the Thunder’s eighth consecutive win, improving their record to 16-1 this season.
The Thunder faced a daunting challenge, trailing by as many as 18 points in the first half. However, their incredible resilience led to the largest comeback by a team that trailed by 15 or more points in the play-by-play era (since 1997-98). Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the star of the night, scoring 31 points and showcasing his shooting prowess, hitting all three of his attempts from beyond the arc.
This dramatic turnaround unfolded late in the third quarter when Oklahoma City, already known for being the league’s best third-quarter team, surged ahead with a relentless offensive display. After trailing 84-77, the Thunder finished the quarter with an astonishing 43-20 run, where Gilgeous-Alexander alone contributed 12 points.
The Thunder’s victory is significant not only for their record but also for establishing their dominance in the tournament. They are now 2-0 in the NBA Cup, shooting an impressive 61.4% from the field and a season-best 62.2% on 3-pointers, making 23 of 37. In stark contrast, the Jazz, who are now 5-10 overall and 0-3 in tournament play, struggled to maintain their early lead, which included a record-setting 44 points in the first quarter.
Keyonte George led the Jazz with 20 points, while Lauri Markkanen added 19, but it was clear that Utah was unable to cope with the Thunder’s defensive pressure. Oklahoma City forced a staggering 28 turnovers, converting them into 44 points, which clearly frustrated Utah’s players throughout the match.
As the season progresses, the Thunder’s ability to rally from behind remains unmatched. They are the only team without a loss when trailing by double digits, boasting a perfect 5-0 record in such scenarios.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Thunder will build on this momentum. With their next game on the horizon, all eyes will be on whether they can extend their winning streak to nine.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA Cup continues to unfold!