NBA

Thunder Sweep Suns 4-0: SGA and OKC First Team Into NBA Second Round

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scores 34 as Oklahoma City complete a dominant 4-0 sweep of Phoenix, becoming the first team into the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs.

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Amina Wanjiku

46d ago3 min read

Thunder Sweep Suns 4-0: SGA and OKC First Team Into NBA Second Round

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been the story of this NBA season, and they underlined their championship credentials by sweeping the Phoenix Suns 4-0 in the first round. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 34 points in the 131-122 Game 4 clincher on Monday night, and OKC became the first team to advance to the second round.

SGA's Statement Series

Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 31.5 points across the four games, shooting 52 per cent from the field and adding 6.5 assists per game. The 27-year-old Canadian has firmly established himself as one of the NBA's top three players, and his combination of scoring, playmaking, and defence makes him a nightmare matchup for any opponent. Jalen Williams contributed 22 points and 8 rebounds in Game 4.

Suns Never in It

Kevin Durant and Devin Booker combined for 53 points in Game 4, but the Suns could never find a way to slow OKC's relentless offence. The Thunder scored 120 or more points in three of the four games, and their depth advantage was evident throughout. Phoenix's ageing core looks increasingly out of step with the league's new generation.

What's Next for OKC

The Thunder will face the winner of the Celtics-76ers or Knicks-Hawks series in the second round. With home-court advantage secured throughout the playoffs and a squad packed with young talent, OKC are the clear favourites to represent the West in the NBA Finals. Their combination of elite-level talent, depth, and coaching makes them the most complete team in the league.

For Kenyan NBA fans, SGA's Thunder represent the future of basketball — a team built through smart drafting and player development rather than superstar trades. It's a blueprint that resonates across the basketball world.

AW
Amina Wanjiku

Sports & Lifestyle Writer

Amina Wanjiku is a sports and lifestyle writer who makes the world of sports accessible to everyone. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just getting started, Amina breaks down NBA action, Olympic drama, and beginner-friendly guides with warmth and clarity.

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