INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased an impressive performance with 26 points and eight assists, while Aaron Wiggins contributed significantly with 19 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder extended their winning streak to six games, edging out the Los Angeles Clippers 103-101 on March 23, 2025. In a nail-biting finish, Alex Caruso's three-pointer put the Thunder ahead with just 1:54 left on the clock.
The Thunder clinched the top seed in the Western Conference last week, proving they are a formidable force, even while missing key players Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, both out due to hip injuries. Isaiah Hartenstein added depth to the Thunder's victory with a double-double—14 points and 10 rebounds—while Jaylin Williams chipped in with 12 points.
It was a bittersweet evening for the Clippers, who faced their first defeat after five consecutive wins, in coach Tyronn Lue's return from a back injury. Lue couldn't have scripted a better comeback, but despite Kawhi Leonard's 25 points and 10 rebounds and James Harden's 17 points, the Clippers fell short in the critical moments.
In a game marked by tension, the Clippers led by as many as nine points in the fourth quarter but ultimately faltered. The Thunder's key moment came late in the game when they tied the score 97-97 with a free throw by Cason Wallace. Caruso's subsequent three-pointer shifted the momentum back to Oklahoma City.
Despite strong plays from Leonard and Harden in the closing moments, the Clippers struggled offensively. Having possession and trailing by just one point, the Clippers missed crucial opportunities—especially a poorly timed shot from Leonard who fired a contested jumper as the clock expired. As the clock wound down, hardened caught a knee from Lu Dort, causing him to limp off the court. Although Harden claimed to be alright after the game, complications from that moment may keep him off the floor for the upcoming games.
The Thunder's solid team performance was impressive, particularly considering Gilgeous-Alexander's shooting woes as he went 7 for 29 from the field, resulting in a season-low shooting percentage. Nevertheless, the win was a testament to the team's depth and resilience.
Looking forward, the Thunder will visit Sacramento on March 25, 2025, while the Clippers, now grappling with their playoff positioning, prepare to face the New York Knicks on March 26.
The game showcased how the League’s dynamics can shift quickly. Teams at the top can trip up when it matters most, while those gunning for playoff placement can seize an opportunity to shine.
