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Oklahoma City Thunder Extend Playoff Unbeaten Run, Defeat Dallas Mavericks in Game 1

Intense Contest Ends with OKC Victory

The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their impressive playoff run, extending their unbeaten streak to two games with a hard-fought 115-109 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal matchup. The Thunder, led by All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, proved too strong for the fifth-seeded Mavericks, who were unable to keep pace in the second half.

Thunder Dominate Second Half

After a closely contested first half that ended with OKC holding a slim 57-55 lead, the Thunder took control of the game in the third quarter. Gilgeous-Alexander played a key role, scoring 10 points and dishing out several assists as the Thunder outscored the Mavericks 32-20. The Thunder's defense also stepped up, limiting the Mavericks to just 38% shooting in the quarter.

The Thunder carried their momentum into the fourth quarter, extending their lead to as many as 15 points. The Mavericks fought back and came within four points with under two minutes remaining, but the Thunder held on for the six-point victory.

Gilgeous-Alexander Leads OKC

Gilgeous-Alexander once again led the way for the Thunder, finishing with a game-high 32 points on 12-of-20 shooting. He also grabbed eight rebounds and dished out eight assists, controlling the pace of the game and making plays for his teammates.

Jalen Williams provided a spark off the bench for OKC, scoring 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting. Lu Dort and Josh Giddey added 16 and 15 points, respectively.

For the Mavericks, Luka Dončić had a quiet game by his standards, finishing with 20 points on 7-of-18 shooting. Dorian Finney-Smith added 22 points, while Tim Hardaway Jr. chipped in 16.

Game 2 Preview

Game 2 of the series will be played in Oklahoma City on Monday, May 8th. The Thunder will look to take a commanding 2-0 lead, while the Mavericks will be desperate to tie the series and regain home-court advantage.

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