The Oklahoma City Thunder, playing shorthanded without Aaron Wiggins and Lu Dort for their NBA Cup game against the Sacramento Kings, jumped out to an early double-digit lead thanks to standout performances from Isaiah Hartenstein and All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Isaiah Hartenstein set the tone early with a first-half double-double, scoring 20 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. He maintained this energy into the second half, surpassing his career-high before the final quarter began.
Amid Hartenstein's breakout game, Gilgeous-Alexander delivered an eye-catching alley-oop that pushed the Thunder’s lead back to double digits late in the third quarter.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sets Isaiah Hartenstein perfectly on the lob 🙌 pic.twitter.com/DSshZ2BW3I — ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) November 8, 2025
Hartenstein left the game having achieved a career-high in points. The Thunder, led by Gilgeous-Alexander and Hartenstein, are poised to improve their record to 9-1 overall and 1-0 in NBA Cup competition.
Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein had a positive outlook after losing 121-119 to the Trail Blazers on Wednesday.
Summary: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Isaiah Hartenstein demonstrated exceptional teamwork, driving the Thunder’s strong start and showcasing Hartenstein's career-best performance.
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