NBA Cup Bracket Shaken by Thunder’s Historic Blowout Over Suns

The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a stunning blow to the NBA Cup bracket last night. They crushed the Phoenix Suns 138-89 in a lopsided quarterfinal victory. The game took place on December 10 at the Thunder’s home court.

This decisive win propels the Thunder to the tournament’s semifinals in Las Vegas. According to ESPN, the 49-point margin is one of the largest victories of the entire season. It immediately reshapes the landscape of the in-season tournament.

Thunder’s Record-Breaking Performance Stuns Phoenix

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with a dominant 28-point performance. His efficiency and control set the tone from the opening tip. The Suns had no answer for his two-way play.

Chet Holmgren was a major force, adding 24 points of his own. The Thunder’s defense was suffocating, forcing turnovers and bad shots. Phoenix struggled to find any consistent offensive rhythm all night.

The victory extends Oklahoma City’s remarkable winning streak to 16 consecutive games. It also improves their overall record to an astounding 24-1 this season. This ties the best 25-game start in the history of the NBA.

Eastern Conference Quarterfinal Results Set Vegas Matchups

The Eastern Conference side of the bracket was also decided on Tuesday. The Orlando Magic defeated the Miami Heat with a final score of 117-108. Desmond Bane led the Magic with a standout 37-point effort.

The New York Knicks secured their semifinal spot by beating the Toronto Raptors 117-101. Their balanced offensive attack proved too much for the Raptors to handle. Both Eastern winners will face each other next in Las Vegas.

In the West’s other matchup, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 132-119. This sets up a thrilling semifinal between the Spurs and the red-hot Thunder. The stage is now set for a dramatic finish to the inaugural tournament.

The Thunder’s historic dismantling of the Suns has sent a clear message to the entire NBA Cup bracket. Their combination of elite talent and relentless execution makes them the current favorite. All eyes now turn to Las Vegas for the final act.

Info at your fingertips

What is the NBA Cup format?

The NBA Cup is the league’s new in-season tournament. Teams compete in group play and a knockout bracket, culminating in a championship in Las Vegas.

When are the NBA Cup semifinals?

The semifinal games are scheduled for December 13 in Las Vegas. The championship game will be played on December 16 at T-Mobile Arena.

Who will the Thunder play next?

Oklahoma City will face the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference semifinal. The Spurs advanced by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers.

How has Shai Gilgeous-Alexander performed this season?

Gilgeous-Alexander is having an MVP-caliber season. He is a leading candidate for the award, averaging over 30 points per game with elite efficiency.

What was the Thunder’s largest lead against the Suns?

Oklahoma City led by as many as 53 points during the fourth quarter. The game was effectively decided by halftime due to their overwhelming performance.

Which teams are in the Eastern Conference semifinal?

The Orlando Magic will play the New York Knicks. Both teams won their quarterfinal matchups convincingly on Tuesday night.