Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander etched his name into the NBA record books on Sunday, tying Oscar Robertson’s longstanding mark of 79 consecutive games with at least 20 points scored. The milestone came during a dominant 137-106 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, propelling the Thunder to a perfect 7-0 start to the season.
Gilgeous-Alexander finished the game with 30 points on 8-of-14 shooting from the field, demonstrating his efficient scoring ability. His performance included a variety of drives, mid-range jumpers, and free throws, underscoring the versatility that has made him one of the league’s most consistent offensive threats. The streak, which began during the previous season, has now reached a historic length, matching a record set by Robertson over six decades ago.
The Thunder’s win was a comprehensive team effort, with center Isaiah Hartenstein nearly recording a triple-double by contributing 14 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists. Oklahoma City’s ball movement and defensive intensity overwhelmed the Pelicans, who remain winless at 0-7. The Thunder shot over 50% from the field and controlled the game from start to finish, highlighting their status as early championship contenders.
Robertson’s original streak occurred during the 1963-64 season, and Gilgeous-Alexander now shares the third-longest such run in NBA history, behind only Wilt Chamberlain’s records of 126 and 107 consecutive games. This achievement places SGA in elite company, reflecting his ascent to superstardom and his importance to the Thunder’s success. His ability to maintain high scoring outputs night after night has been a key factor in Oklahoma City’s rise.
The Pelicans, despite efforts from players like Zion Williamson, could not keep pace with the Thunder’s offensive firepower. New Orleans has struggled defensively throughout the young season, and this game exposed those vulnerabilities further. In contrast, the Thunder’s depth was on display, with role players stepping up to support Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic night.
Looking forward, Gilgeous-Alexander will have the opportunity to break the tie with Robertson in Oklahoma City’s next game, potentially moving into sole possession of third place on the all-time list. The Thunder’s schedule continues with matchups against other Western Conference foes, and SGA’s streak will be a focal point for fans and analysts alike. His consistency has made him a favorite for MVP honors, and this record-tying performance only strengthens his case.
In summary, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s record-tying game not only cements his individual legacy but also signals the Thunder’s emergence as a force in the NBA. With a perfect record and a superstar in peak form, Oklahoma City looks poised for a deep playoff run, building on the foundation of SGA’s remarkable scoring streak.