Trail Blazers Rally to Defeat Thunder 121-119
The Portland Trail Blazers overcame a 22-point deficit to secure a thrilling 121-119 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night.
Key Performances
- Deni Avdija led the Blazers with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists.
- Jrue Holiday contributed 22 points, including crucial free throws that put Portland ahead 121-118 with six seconds remaining.
- Jerami Grant scored 20 points off the bench, helping Portland hand the defending NBA champions their first loss of the season.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with 35 points, while Aaron Wiggins added 27.
Game Highlights
Portland took its first lead at 97-96 with a Holiday jumper at 6:44 left. A forced backcourt violation on the Thunder led to another Holiday 3-pointer, pushing Portland to 100-96. Wiggins responded with a personal 5-0 run, putting Oklahoma City back ahead 101-100.
The teams exchanged leads multiple times until Grant's jumper made it 105-104 in favor of the Blazers.
Final Moments
Isaiah Joe was fouled on a jumper with 0.5 seconds remaining. After a replay review showed Joe's toe on the three-point line, he made his first free throw but intentionally missed the second. Oklahoma City then failed to convert a last-second tip-in attempt.
The Thunder played without Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort, and Alex Caruso, who all sat out following Tuesday's win over the Los Angeles Clippers.
Records
- Oklahoma City Thunder fell to 8-1 after suffering their first loss this season.
- Portland Trail Blazers improved to 5-3.
Summary: The Trail Blazers staged a remarkable comeback, fueled by Avdija's near triple-double and clutch plays from Holiday, ending the Thunder's strong start to the season.
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