Shai ignites Thunder as OKC bury Chicago with a 22–0 run

Oklahoma City entered the night determined to rebound from the loss to Boston, and the tone was clear from the opening possessions. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, despite uncharacteristic shooting, remained the offensive anchor, while Cason Wallace embraced larger duties to keep the Thunder steady as Chicago relied on Collin Sexton’s early rhythm. Without Chet Holmgren, OKC adjusted defensively, but Jalen Williams’ return added creativity and physicality, helping counter the perimeter threats of Tre Jones and Isaac Okoro.

Chicago tried to build on its first‑half momentum, with Sexton guiding a fluid attack and the Bulls holding a slim lead at the break, even as Josh Giddey struggled to score but continued facilitating. The third quarter evolved into a tight duel until Jaylin Williams’ three-pointer sparked OKC’s first lead. Then came the turning point: a crushing 22–0 run bridging the final two quarters, leaving Chicago scoreless for nearly seven minutes. From there, the Bulls never recovered, falling 131–113.