Thunder’s Victory Over Mavericks Secures NBA Cup Semi-Final Spot
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 39 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 118-104 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in their Western Conference quarter-final, helping them reach the NBA Cup semi-finals. The Thunder made a strong statement with a season-high 20 three-pointers, five of which were sunk by Gilgeous-Alexander.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s All-Around Performance Shines
In addition to his scoring, Gilgeous-Alexander contributed eight rebounds, five assists, and three steals. His efforts helped Oklahoma City pull away in the third quarter, turning a three-point halftime advantage into a commanding 90-73 lead. Klay Thompson and Naji Marshall led the Mavericks with 19 points each, but Dallas struggled with star Luka Dončić, who was limited to just 16 points in the game.
The Thunder will now face the winner of the Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets match in the Western Conference semi-finals, which will be held in Las Vegas for the final stages of the competition.
Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo Shines in Win Against Orlando Magic
Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks advanced to the NBA Cup semi-finals thanks to a stellar performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who scored 37 points in a hard-fought 114-109 win over the Orlando Magic. The Bucks also benefited from Damian Lillard’s clutch shooting in the fourth quarter.
Lillard’s Fourth-Quarter Heroics Lead the Way
Lillard played a key role in the Bucks’ comeback, scoring 15 of his 28 points in the final period. He also added nine assists, with his step-back three-pointer tying the game at 106 with just 52.2 seconds left. Lillard’s subsequent lay-up and four free throws sealed the victory for Milwaukee.
The Bucks will now play the winner of the matchup between the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup semi-finals. The Bucks are looking to build on their experience from last season, when they reached the semi-finals but were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers.
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