Oklahoma City Thunder Dominates Phoenix Suns in Game 1
The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a commanding performance in Game 1 of their 2026 NBA playoff series against the Phoenix Suns, securing a decisive 119-84 victory. The Thunder’s big three—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren—were instrumental in the win, showcasing their offensive and defensive prowess.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 25 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Despite a shooting percentage of 27.8% (5-18 FG), his overall impact on the game was undeniable. Jalen Williams contributed 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, shooting an impressive 60.0% from the field (9-15 FG). Chet Holmgren added 16 points and seven rebounds, hitting 50.0% of his shots (5-10 FG).
Holmgren Addresses Pre-Game Interaction with Dillon Brooks
After the game, Holmgren addressed a pre-game incident involving Dillon Brooks, where the Canadian player initially refused to hand over the game ball. Holmgren shared his perspective on the situation:
“I mean, I wouldn’t hand him the ball either. I didn’t take it personally. He has his persona that he plays. I think he wanted to give it to his guy first, but I got my touch before the game started, so it’s all good.”
A video of the incident went viral on social media, highlighting Brooks’ usual pregame tactics to get into opponents’ heads. The intensity of the game escalated further when Brooks was seen smacking Holmgren in the face. Although it appeared unintentional, the act was deemed reckless, resulting in a flagrant foul just five minutes into the first quarter.
Gilgeous-Alexander Comments on Brooks’ Impact
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also spoke to the media after the game, reflecting on Brooks’ influence on the court beyond just instigating his opponents. He emphasized that Brooks’ impact is not limited to the box score:
“Dillon is gonna affect the game regardless. That’s what makes him a really good player. Wherever he goes, whatever team he plays on, they play at a high level, they compete, they defend, and it’s his mentality. It’s infectious.”
Gilgeous-Alexander noted that Brooks’ presence elevates the teams he plays for, citing examples from his time with the Phoenix Suns, Houston, and Memphis. He also mentioned his experience playing with Brooks on Team Canada, highlighting how his mentality is contagious.
“We saw that with this Phoenix team, we saw it in the past with Houston and Memphis; it’s the player he is. I felt it when I was playing with him on Team Canada, so he’s going to affect the game regardless.”
He added that every team has strengths and weaknesses, and the key is to make them do the things they are not comfortable doing.
Brooks Struggles Offensively
Despite his efforts to rattle the Thunder, Brooks struggled offensively, finishing with 18 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. His shooting was inefficient, as he shot 6-22 (27.3 FG%) from the field and 3-10 (30.0 3P%) from beyond the arc.
What’s Next for the Series
The Thunder will now host Game 2 on Wednesday, April 22. Fans will be watching closely to see if Brooks can bounce back and have a more impactful performance or if the defending champions will continue their dominance in the series. The outcome of Game 2 could set the tone for the rest of the playoff matchup.
