Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Breaks Wilt Chamberlain's Record

Thunder star emphasizes team success over individual accolades after setting new NBA mark.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:51pm

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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has broken Wilt Chamberlain's long-standing NBA record for consecutive 20-point games, extending his streak to 127 games. However, Gilgeous-Alexander was quick to downplay the individual milestone, emphasizing that the accomplishment only matters because it has helped the Thunder win games.

Why it matters

Gilgeous-Alexander's record-breaking performance is a testament to his consistent scoring ability and the Thunder's success this season. The streak highlights the 24-year-old's growth into one of the league's elite players, but his focus on team success over individual accolades sets him apart.

The details

Gilgeous-Alexander surpassed Chamberlain's previous record of 126 straight 20-point games, which had stood since 1963. The Thunder star emphasized that the streak and any individual awards mean little without victories, saying 'None of the things I accomplished would matter if we weren't winning.' Despite leading the league in scoring, Gilgeous-Alexander has adapted his game to different defensive strategies throughout the historic run.

  • Gilgeous-Alexander extended his streak to 127 straight 20-point games on March 13, 2026.
  • Wilt Chamberlain's previous record of 126 straight 20-point games was set in 1963.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The 24-year-old Oklahoma City Thunder guard who has emerged as one of the NBA's elite players, breaking Wilt Chamberlain's long-standing record for consecutive 20-point games.

Wilt Chamberlain

The legendary NBA player whose record of 126 straight 20-point games stood for over 60 years before being broken by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

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What they’re saying

“None of the things I accomplished would matter if we weren't winning. And I probably wouldn't have most of them if we weren't winning. That's why you play the game.”

— Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder Guard

“Basketball is a five-man sport. You can't win by yourself. You need great teammates, great role players, a great coach. I like to think we have all of those.”

— Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder Guard

What’s next

Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder will look to continue their strong season and make a deep playoff run, with the guard's focus remaining on team success over individual accolades.

The takeaway

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's record-breaking performance and team-first mentality exemplify the value of selfless, winning basketball. His historic streak is a testament to his elite scoring ability, but his emphasis on collective success over personal milestones sets him apart as a true leader.