Thunder rout Suns in Game 1 of playoffs

Gilgeous-Alexander scores 25 as reigning champions open title defense with 119-84 win

Apr. 19, 2026 at 10:56pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a basketball game, with the bright orange and blue colors of the Thunder and Suns uniforms creating a dynamic, energetic composition.The Thunder's decisive Game 1 victory over the Suns sets the stage for a high-intensity playoff series between the two Western Conference powerhouses.Oklahoma City Today

The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by reigning league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 25 points, opened their NBA title defense with a dominant 119-84 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Game 1 of their first-round Western Conference playoff series on Sunday.

Why it matters

The Thunder are looking to repeat as NBA champions after their surprise title run last season. This lopsided win over the Suns, who were one of the top teams in the West during the regular season, sends an early message that the Thunder remain a force to be reckoned with in the playoffs.

The details

Gilgeous-Alexander struggled from the field, making just 5 of 18 shots, but made up for it by going 15-of-17 from the free throw line. Jalen Williams added 22 points and Chet Holmgren chipped in 16 for the Thunder, who pulled away in the second quarter and led by as many as 31 points. Devin Booker scored 23 points for the Suns, who shot just 34.9% from the field as a team.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
  • Game 2 of the series will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 in Oklahoma City.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The reigning NBA MVP scored 25 points to lead the Thunder to victory in Game 1.

Jalen Williams

The Thunder guard scored 22 points in the blowout win.

Chet Holmgren

The Thunder forward contributed 16 points, including a 3-pointer at the end of the first quarter.

Devin Booker

The Suns' star player scored a team-high 23 points in the loss.

Dillon Brooks

The Suns forward struggled, shooting just 6-of-22 from the field and scoring 18 points.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

Game 2 of the series will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 in Oklahoma City.

The takeaway

The Thunder's dominant performance in Game 1 shows they remain the team to beat in the Western Conference playoffs as they look to defend their NBA championship. The Suns will need to make significant adjustments if they hope to even the series in Game 2.