Thunder host Jazz in Western Conference matchup

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and OKC look to continue hot streak against struggling Utah

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:10pm

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The Oklahoma City Thunder (61-16) will host the Utah Jazz (21-57) in a Western Conference matchup on Sunday evening. The Thunder are coming off a dominant 139-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers, while the Jazz suffered a 140-106 road loss to the Houston Rockets in their last game.

Why it matters

This game features a stark contrast between the playoff-bound Thunder and the rebuilding Jazz. OKC is looking to solidify its position in the West, while Utah is playing out the string in a difficult season. The outcome could impact the Thunder's seeding and playoff positioning.

The details

The Thunder will lean on star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is having an All-NBA caliber season. The Jazz will counter with veteran forward Ace Bailey, who has been a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign for the team.

  • The game tips off at 6 p.m. CT on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • OKC is coming off a 139-96 home win over the Lakers on Thursday, April 3.
  • Utah lost 140-106 to the Rockets on the road on Friday, April 4.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The 24-year-old All-Star guard is leading the Thunder with 27.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game this season.

Ace Bailey

The 33-year-old veteran forward is averaging 16.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game for the struggling Jazz.

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What they’re saying

“We know Utah has had a tough year, but we can't overlook them. They have some veteran talent that can still cause problems if we're not focused.”

— Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder Guard

“It's been a grind, but I'm just trying to go out there and compete every night. Hopefully we can spoil a few more games before the season ends.”

— Ace Bailey, Jazz Forward

What’s next

The Thunder will look to clinch a playoff berth with a win, while the Jazz will try to play spoiler and pick up a rare road victory.

The takeaway

This game features a stark contrast in playoff positioning, with the Thunder firmly in the hunt and the Jazz playing out the string. However, OKC will need to stay focused to avoid an upset against the veteran-led Jazz squad.