The Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a 19-point first-half deficit to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 114-100 on Sunday, improving their league-best record to 10-1.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the comeback with 35 points, including 13 in the third quarter, along with seven rebounds, six assists, and two steals. Chet Holmgren and Ajay Mitchell added 21 points each. “We know in this league so many variables are thrown at you on a nightly basis. You’ve just got to figure out what the task is that night and get it done,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
The Grizzlies, led by Jaren Jackson Jr. with 17 points and seven rebounds, held a 62-51 halftime lead but were outscored 34-18 in the third quarter. Mitchell’s clutch layup and Gilgeous-Alexander’s late three-pointers secured the Thunder’s victory.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets rallied late to beat the Milwaukee Bucks 122-115. Kevin Durant scored 31 points and added seven assists, while Alperen Sengun posted 23 points and 11 rebounds. The Rockets outscored Milwaukee 22-7 in the final four and a half minutes. “We weathered the storm. It was a great, great finish for us,” Durant said. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 37 points but missed crucial free throws in the final moments.
In other NBA action, the New York Knicks extended their perfect home record to 6-0 with a 134-98 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham scored 26 points and dished out 11 assists to lead Detroit to a 111-107 comeback victory against the Philadelphia 76ers, who were without Joel Embiid.
The Golden State Warriors beat the injury-plagued Indiana Pacers 114-83, with Jimmy Butler contributing 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists despite Stephen Curry missing his third straight game.
The weekend showcased several thrilling comebacks, standout performances, and key victories that continue to shape the early NBA season standings.