Thunder Defeat Mavericks to Advance in NBA Cup Tournament

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 39-point performance and stifling defense propel Oklahoma City to a 118-104 victory in the quarterfinals.

Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 118-104 win over the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference quarterfinals of the NBA Cup on Tuesday night.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 39 points, including five three-pointers, while adding eight rebounds and five assists.
The Thunder's defense forced 19 turnovers, converting them into 36 points, and limited Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to a combined 33 points on inefficient shooting.
Oklahoma City broke open the game in the third quarter with a 13-2 run, extending a three-point halftime lead to a 17-point margin entering the fourth quarter.
The Thunder will face either the Golden State Warriors or Houston Rockets in the semifinals on Saturday in Las Vegas, with the winner advancing to the NBA Cup final.