The Oklahoma City Thunder stormed back into the win column in emphatic fashion on Sunday afternoon, dismantling the shorthanded Philadelphia 76ers 129-104 at the Paycom Center. After dropping back-to-back games for the first time all season—a pair of tough losses to the San Antonio Spurs—the Thunder (27-5) looked every bit the NBA powerhouse their record suggests, delivering a balanced and high-octane performance against a 76ers squad missing several key contributors.
From the opening tip, Oklahoma City set an aggressive tone, making their first nine field goals and shooting a blistering 57% for the game (50-of-87). Chet Holmgren led the charge with a career night, pouring in 29 points on 12-of-17 shooting, grabbing nine rebounds, and swatting away four shots. The rookie phenom was everywhere, showing off his versatility on both ends and reminding fans why he's one of the most tantalizing young talents in the league.
"We knew we needed to respond after those two losses," Holmgren said after the game, his jersey still damp with sweat. "The energy in the building was incredible, and we just fed off it. Everyone was locked in from the start."
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP and the Thunder's offensive engine, continued his remarkable run of scoring consistency. He finished with 27 points, five assists, and two steals, marking his 103rd consecutive game with at least 20 points. Gilgeous-Alexander was ruthlessly efficient, knocking down 10 of his 13 field goal attempts and converting 7-of-9 from the charity stripe. With the game well in hand by the fourth quarter, he was able to rest, having already left his mark on the contest.
"Shai sets the tone for us every night," Thunder coach Mark Daigneault remarked. "His ability to control the tempo and get everyone involved is special. When he's rolling, we're tough to beat."
Jalen Williams chipped in with 14 points, six assists, and three steals, adding a steadying presence and making timely plays throughout. Isaiah Hartenstein, Lu Dort, and the rest of the Thunder starting five—finally healthy together—showed flashes of the chemistry that has eluded them for much of the season due to injuries. This victory marked the first time this particular lineup secured a win together, a promising sign for Oklahoma City as they look to solidify their identity heading into the heart of the season.
For Philadelphia, the afternoon was an uphill battle from the outset. Already reeling from consecutive losses and missing their MVP, Joel Embiid (out with an ankle injury), the 76ers (16-14) leaned heavily on Tyrese Maxey. The dynamic guard was electric in the first half, exploding for 23 points on 8-for-10 shooting in just 19 minutes. His scoring outburst kept the Sixers within striking distance, even giving them a brief 61-59 lead late in the second quarter after a deep three-pointer.
But the Thunder closed the half strong, with Gilgeous-Alexander's smooth 13-foot jumper putting Oklahoma City up 64-62 at the break. From there, the floodgates opened. The Thunder outscored the Sixers 38-24 in the third quarter, turning defense into offense with a flurry of steals, fast breaks, and pinpoint passing. By the end of the third, the lead had ballooned to 102-86, and the Paycom Center crowd could sense the game slipping away from the visitors.
Maxey finished with a game-high 28 points, doing everything he could to keep Philadelphia afloat. Quentin Grimes added 13 points, and Paul George—returning to Oklahoma City, where he once starred—chipped in 12. George received a warm ovation from the crowd, a nod to his role in the trade that brought Gilgeous-Alexander and, eventually, Williams to the Thunder.
"It was special to be back here and see how this team has grown," George said. "Obviously, you want to win, but you have to give credit to how well they're playing and how tough this environment is."
Turnovers proved to be Philadelphia's undoing. The 76ers coughed up the ball 23 times, leading directly to 31 Thunder points. Without their usual interior anchor in Embiid and missing Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford to injuries, the Sixers struggled to find rhythm and maintain composure under Oklahoma City's relentless pressure.
Oklahoma City, meanwhile, looked every bit the contender their gaudy record suggests. They improved to 27-5, maintaining their perch atop the NBA standings. The Thunder's offense clicked on all cylinders, but it was their defense—particularly in the third quarter—that truly set them apart on Sunday. Their ability to force turnovers and convert them into easy baskets was a sight to behold, and it left the 76ers scrambling for answers.
The game also showcased the depth and resilience of both teams' rosters. The Thunder were without Ousmane Dieng, Thomas Sorber, Nikola Topic, and Jaylin Williams due to various injuries, while the Sixers' absences have been well-documented. Yet, both sides saw younger players and role contributors step up, providing valuable minutes and experience as the season grinds on.
The contest was broadcast regionally on FanDuel Sports Network Oklahoma and streamed live on Fubo, giving fans multiple ways to catch the action. Those in attendance at the Paycom Center were treated to a raucous, high-energy affair that saw their home team bounce back in style. For Thunder fans, it was a much-needed reminder of just how potent this group can be when healthy and firing on all cylinders.
Looking ahead, the Thunder won't have much time to rest on their laurels. They're set to host the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night, continuing a crucial four-game homestand that could further bolster their status as the league's top team. The 76ers, meanwhile, will try to regroup on the road against the Memphis Grizzlies, hoping to get healthier and snap their losing streak.
As the calendar turns to 2026, both Oklahoma City and Philadelphia have plenty to play for. The Thunder are chasing history with their blistering start, while the Sixers aim to weather the storm of injuries and keep their playoff hopes alive. Sunday's game was a showcase of star power, resilience, and the unpredictable drama that makes NBA basketball so compelling. And if this is any indication, the Thunder's best may be yet to come.
