Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren Shines in Madison Square Garden Matchup

Holmgren scores 28 points, including 6 threes, to lead Thunder to narrow victory over Knicks

Mar. 5, 2026 at 10:06pm

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Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren had a standout performance in his second career game at Madison Square Garden, scoring 28 points with 6 three-pointers to help the Thunder defeat the New York Knicks 103-100. Holmgren said playing at the 'Mecca' of basketball was 'a hooper's dream' and he was able to find his offensive rhythm early, with his teammates finding him for open shots. The Thunder held on for the close win, with Holmgren and fellow All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way.

Why it matters

Holmgren's big game at Madison Square Garden showcases his continued development as an elite young talent in the NBA. The Thunder, who lost key players in the offseason, are proving they can still compete at a high level behind their two All-Stars. The win also extends Oklahoma City's winning streak to four games as they continue to climb the Western Conference standings.

The details

Holmgren scored 22 of his 28 points in the first half, knocking down 6 three-pointers on the night. He credited his teammates for finding him in open spaces and allowing him to get into an early offensive rhythm. The game came down to the wire, with the Thunder holding off a late Knicks comeback attempt to secure the 103-100 victory.

  • Holmgren was playing in only his second career game at Madison Square Garden.

The players

Chet Holmgren

The Oklahoma City Thunder's 24-year-old All-Star forward who had a standout performance against the Knicks, scoring 28 points with 6 three-pointers.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Oklahoma City Thunder's 24-year-old All-Star guard who finished with 26 points, 8 assists, and 1 steal in the win over the Knicks.

New York Knicks

The Thunder's opponent, the New York Knicks, who were narrowly defeated 103-100 at home.

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What they’re saying

“Just trying to find open space. From there, it was more of my teammates seeing me, and then, just knocking down shots.”

— Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star (clutchpoints.com)

“It doesn't matter if you have 100 points, it only counts as one win on the record. But it's always cool to have a good game in the Mecca. I've only played here one other time, and I'd say this is definitely my best game in the Garden. So, that's awesome. And on top of that, we were able to win the game, which is even better.”

— Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star (clutchpoints.com)

“It's any hooper's dream to play in the Garden. The juices were flowing, and we were ready to play.”

— Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Thunder, on a four-game winning streak, will host the Warriors on Saturday.

The takeaway

Chet Holmgren's standout performance at Madison Square Garden showcases his continued growth as an elite young talent in the NBA, as the Thunder prove they can still compete at a high level despite offseason roster changes.