Gilgeous-Alexander closes on NBA record in Thunder win over Warriors
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has moved within touching distance of Wilt Chamberlain’s all-time NBA scoring record after leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to victory against the Golden State Warriors.
Chasing Chamberlain’s benchmark
The Canadian guard scored 27 points to help the defending champions secure a 104-97 win at the Paycom Center.
He has now scored at least 20 points in 125 consecutive games, a remarkable sequence of consistency that began on 1 November 2024.
NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain currently holds the record of 126 games, which was set between October 1961 and January 1963.
Gilgeous-Alexander can tie the long-standing mark against the Denver Nuggets on Monday before potentially breaking it against the Boston Celtics on Thursday.
Thunder first to 50 wins
Victory over Golden State was the Thunder’s fifth in a row, consolidating their position at the top of the Western Conference.
They have become the first team to reach 50 wins this season as they look to retain their NBA title.
The Warriors, who were without the injured Stephen Curry, rallied to cut the deficit to 99-97 late in the fourth quarter.
However, Gilgeous-Alexander settled the contest with a decisive three-pointer in the final minute.
Reflecting on the team’s ambition, the Thunder star emphasised their goal to repeat last year’s success.
“If we were the best team last year, all year, we win a championship, and we get better, we should put ourselves in great position to repeat.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
He added: “This year’s had a little bit more ups and downs for us, but I think we’ve done a pretty good job keeping that front of mind.”
Nets stun Eastern Conference leaders
Elsewhere, Michael Porter Jr scored 30 points as the Brooklyn Nets produced a stunning comeback to beat the Detroit Pistons 107-105.
Brooklyn overturned a 23-point deficit to end a 10-game losing streak against the East’s top-seeded side.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks with 27 points in a 113-99 victory over the visiting Utah Jazz.
In Atlanta, Jalen Johnson posted 35 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists to guide the Hawks past the Philadelphia 76ers 125-116.
Kawhi Leonard scored 28 points as the Los Angeles Clippers erased a 19-point first-half deficit to edge out the Memphis Grizzlies 123-120.
The Orlando Magic also enjoyed a comfortable night on the road, winning 119-92 at the Minnesota Timberwolves despite Anthony Edwards scoring 34 points for the hosts.