Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images

By Joel Reyes

The Oklahoma City Thunder extended their winning streak to two games, recording an emphatic 136-109 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Thursday (PH time) at Mortgage Matchup Center. Jalen Williams led the way for the Thunder, who improved their overall record to 42-13.

Williams stepped up in the absence of the injured Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, scoring a team-high 28 points in just 20 minutes of action. He was efficient on the offensive end, going 11-for-12 from the field. He also had five assists and four rebounds in the rout.

The Thunder got off to a fast start, building a 37-25 lead after the opening quarter. Oklahoma City continued to pull away in the second quarter, outscoring Phoenix 38-27 during that period to extend their lead to 23 points at the half. 

Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images

Isaiah Joe powered OKC’s offense during the first two quarters, scoring 21 points off the bench on 4-of-4 shooting from deep.

The reigning NBA champions cruised to victory after that, protecting their double-digit lead throughout the second half as they claimed their league-best 20th away win of the season ahead of the All-Star Weekend.  

It was an embarrassing defeat for the Suns, who fell to 32-23 following the crushing loss. They finished the four-game homestand with a 1-3 record, with their only victory coming against the Dallas Mavericks last Wednesday.

Dillon Brooks continued his fine form, scoring 23 points in a losing effort. He also had five rebounds, four assists, and two steals. He averaged 24.5 points in his last four games.