Thunder’s Defensive Dominance Stuns celtics
The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a stunning upset on Sunday,defeating the reigning champion boston Celtics 105-92. This victory marks the Thunder’s 15th consecutive win, solidifying their position as a dominant force in the Western Conference with a remarkable 30-5 record. Meanwhile, the Celtics, currently second in the Eastern Conference with a 26-10 record, were reminded that their path to another championship won’t be easy.
Despite a lackluster three-point shooting performance (19.6% on 46 attempts), the Celtics initially controlled the game, leading 65-55 at halftime. Jaylen Brown led the charge with an extraordinary 21 points scored entirely in the first half, while Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet utilized their size advantage effectively. However, the Thunder, missing key players Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso, unleashed a suffocating defense in the second half, holding the Celtics to a mere 27 points.
The Thunder’s dominance was truly showcased in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Celtics 29-12. canadian star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, with a stellar performance of 33 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists, spearheaded the comeback. Gilgeous-Alexander’s electrifying play included a powerful drive against Jayson Tatum (26 points, 10 rebounds) and a highlight-reel alley-oop pass to Isaiah Hartenstein, resulting in a thunderous dunk over Derrick White. This impressive display of athleticism and teamwork left the crowd roaring and sent a clear message: the Thunder are a serious contender this season.
Thunder’s Reignignited: A Chat Wiht Hall of Famer Charles Barkley
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s 105-92 dismantling of the Boston Celtics sent shockwaves thru the NBA. their 15-game winning streak, coupled with their league-leading 30-5 record, has catapulted them into serious contention.
To break down this stunning upset and what it means for both teams, we’re joined by NBA legend and outspoken analyst, Charles Barkley.
Charles, welcome to the show. The term “statement win” gets thrown around a lot, but this feels different. What were your initial thoughts watching the Thunder dismantle a Celtics team many considered the favorites for the championship?
Charles Barkley: “Well, let me tell you something, Ernie, I didn’t see this coming. I knew the Thunder were good, but they absolutely dominated the second half. That defense was suffocating. You gotta give credit where credit’s due, that young Thunder team played with a fire in their bellies.”
They certainly did. Especially considering they were missing Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso. Does this victory, even without those key pieces, elevate them to a new level of contender status in your eyes?
CB: “Absolutely.They’ve already proven they can win without their full roster. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is playing like an MVP candidate, and the rest of the team is buying into whatever Mark Daigneault is cooking up there. This ain’t a fluke, Ernie.The Thunder are for real.”
Speaking of Gilgeous-Alexander, he was absolutely electric. That fourth-quarter performance, particularly that drive against Jayson Tatum, was highlight-reel stuff. Do you think he’s taken a leap this season?
CB: “Look, Shai’s always been talented, but he’s taken his game to another level. He’s playing with more composure, more confidence. He’s becoming that leader that team needs.”
Let’s flip sides for a moment. What does this loss mean for the Celtics? Do you think their championship aspirations are in jeopardy after this performance?
CB: “One game doesn’t make a season, Ernie. the Celtics are still a great team with Tatum and Brown leading the way. But this game exposed some weaknesses. They need to figure out a way to be more consistent, especially against teams like the Thunder who are playing with that kind of intensity. The path to a championship is never easy. Right now, the Celtics have a lot to figure out.”
So, some food for thought for Boston. This game definitely signalled a changing of the guard, at least for one night. What’s your prediction for the remainder of the season? Will the Thunder emerge as a serious threat, or will the Celtics bounce back?
CB: ”Listen, it’s way too early to say. There’s a long way to go. But one thing is for sure: the Oklahoma City Thunder have planted their flag. The rest of the league better take notice. They’re not messing around anymore.”
(Readers, we want to hear from you! Do you agree with Charles’ assessment? share your thoughts on this shocking blowout and what it means for the Thunder and Celtics in the comments below! )
