Cavaliers vs Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Scores 42 Points as Oklahoma City Wins 124-116

The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their impressive run against the Cleveland Cavaliers with a 124-116 victory on November 4, 2026, at Paycom Center. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered another outstanding performance, scoring 42 points to lead Oklahoma City to its second consecutive win over Cleveland.

Despite missing several important players, including Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace, the Thunder found enough offensive firepower to overcome the Cavaliers. Bennett Stirtz, Kenrich Williams and Ajay Mitchell also made important contributions in a game that highlighted Oklahoma City’s depth.

For Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell led the scoring with 27 points, while James Harden added 19 points. However, the Cavaliers struggled to recover from Oklahoma City’s dominant first half.

Cavaliers vs Thunder: Game Result and Highlights

The Thunder defeated the Cavaliers 124-116 in an entertaining matchup that featured strong scoring performances from both teams.

Oklahoma City established control early, taking a 37-20 lead after the opening quarter. Its aggressive offense and defensive pressure made life difficult for Cleveland throughout the first half.

The Thunder extended their advantage to as many as 25 points in the second quarter before entering halftime with a 60-44 lead.

Cleveland attempted to change the momentum after the break. Harden and Mitchell helped the Cavaliers score the first nine points of the second half, reducing the deficit and briefly creating hope for a comeback.

However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander responded with his trademark mid-range shooting, aggressive drives and ability to draw fouls. Oklahoma City maintained an 88-74 advantage entering the fourth quarter.

The Cavaliers scored 42 points in the final period, but the Thunder managed 36 of their own to protect the lead and secure the eight-point victory.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Oklahoma City With 42 Points

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the biggest difference-maker in the Cavaliers vs Thunder matchup.

The Oklahoma City superstar finished with 42 points, eight assists and four rebounds. He shot 11-of-26 from the field, including 5-of-11 from three-point range, and converted 15 of his 19 free-throw attempts.

After scoring only 10 points in the first half, Gilgeous-Alexander took control following the break. He attacked Cleveland’s defense with drives, difficult mid-range shots and excellent control of the basketball.

His 32-point second half helped Oklahoma City prevent the Cavaliers from completing their comeback.

The performance also marked his second consecutive game with at least 40 points, underlining his importance to the Thunder during their injury-hit stretch.

Bennett Stirtz and Kenrich Williams Make Important Contributions

Two other Oklahoma City players who deserve attention are Bennett Stirtz and Kenrich Williams.

Bennett Stirtz delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, finishing with 16 points, one rebound and one assist. He shot an impressive 6-of-9 from the field and connected on four of his seven three-point attempts.

Stirtz provided valuable outside shooting and took advantage of the opportunities created by Gilgeous-Alexander. His two steals also demonstrated his contribution beyond scoring.

Kenrich Williams added 13 points, four rebounds and two assists while shooting 5-of-9 from the field. He connected on three of his five attempts from beyond the arc.

Williams made an immediate impact, scoring 10 points in the opening quarter as Oklahoma City built its early advantage. His defensive work against James Harden also helped the Thunder maintain control.

Both players stepped up when Oklahoma City needed additional production from its supporting cast.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Oklahoma City Thunder Match Player Stats

Here are the leading player statistics from the November 4 matchup.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Stats

Cleveland Cavaliers Player Stats

Evan Mobley’s double-double was another positive for Cleveland, but the Cavaliers could not overcome Oklahoma City’s early scoring advantage.

Team Statistics: Cavaliers vs Thunder

The overall team numbers show how Oklahoma City created its advantage.

Cleveland actually made more three-pointers, but Oklahoma City benefited from better overall shooting efficiency and significantly more free-throw opportunities.

The Thunder also recorded 25 assists on 41 made field goals, showing their ability to generate quality scoring opportunities.

Cavaliers vs Thunder Timeline: How Oklahoma City Controlled the Game

First Quarter: Oklahoma City came out aggressively and established a commanding lead. Kenrich Williams contributed early points as the Thunder finished the period ahead 37-20.

Second Quarter: The Thunder continued their dominance and briefly doubled Cleveland’s score at 50-25. Oklahoma City entered halftime with a 60-44 advantage.

Third Quarter: Cleveland opened the second half with nine unanswered points, but Gilgeous-Alexander responded with important baskets. The Thunder maintained an 88-74 lead.

Fourth Quarter: The Cavaliers produced 42 points and attempted a late comeback. However, Oklahoma City’s offense continued to deliver, allowing the Thunder to finish with a 124-116 victory.

Where to Watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Oklahoma City Thunder?

Fans looking for where to watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Oklahoma City Thunder should check the official NBA broadcast schedule and regional television listings.

For viewers in the United States, NBA League Pass is another option for checking live-game availability, subject to local blackout restrictions and broadcast rights.

International viewers, including fans in India, can check NBA League Pass and their local sports broadcasters for available coverage.

The November 4, 2026, matchup has already concluded, with Oklahoma City winning 124-116.

What the Cavaliers vs Thunder Result Means

The victory gives Oklahoma City another important result against a competitive Cleveland team.

The Thunder have demonstrated that they can remain dangerous even without several key players. Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring ability has been central to that effort, while Ajay Mitchell, Bennett Stirtz and Kenrich Williams have provided valuable support.

For Cleveland, the defeat highlights the importance of starting games with greater energy and defensive intensity. Donovan Mitchell and James Harden produced solid offensive numbers, but the team’s slow start created a difficult situation.

Oklahoma City will take confidence from another victory, while Cleveland will look to improve its consistency in upcoming games.

Final Score: Oklahoma City Thunder 124, Cleveland Cavaliers 116.