SGA Scores Career-High 55 Points as Thunder Win 2OT Rematch Over Pacers

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a career-high 55 points, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 141-135 double-overtime victory over the Indiana Pacers in a rematch of last season's NBA Finals. This marked the Thunder’s second consecutive double-overtime win to start the season, making them the first NBA team ever to do so. Despite injuries to key players like Jalen Williams and Tyrese Haliburton, the Thunder showcased strong depth with Ajay Mitchell scoring a career-best 26 points and Aaron Wiggins adding 23. The Pacers fought hard with Bennedict Mathurin contributing 36 points and Pascal Siakam 32, but fouling out and injuries hampered their chances. The game was closely contested, with neither team leading by more than seven points and marred by numerous fouls and a technical on Indiana’s coach. The Thunder’s resilience and Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic performance underscored their determination to defend their title in a challenging season start.