The Portland Trail Blazers mounted a stunning comeback to hand the Oklahoma City Thunder their first defeat of the NBA season, ending the league’s final unbeaten run.
Oklahoma City, who had won their opening eight games, appeared to be cruising to another victory after racing to a 22-point lead. However, Portland produced a spirited second-half performance to snatch a dramatic 121-119 win and bring the Thunder’s perfect start to an end.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the scoring with 35 points for the Thunder, continuing his remarkable consistency. The reigning MVP has now scored at least 20 points in 81 consecutive games, the third-longest streak in NBA history.
In another headline clash, Luka Dončić outshone Victor Wembanyama as the Los Angeles Lakers edged out the San Antonio Spurs 118-116 in a tense encounter.
Elsewhere, the Brooklyn Nets finally got off the mark for the season, securing their first victory with a 112-103 win over an injury-depleted Indiana Pacers side.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokić delivered another masterclass with a triple-double to inspire the Denver Nuggets to a 122-112 triumph over the Miami Heat. The New York Knicks also turned on the style, pouring in 83 second-half points to overpower the Minnesota Timberwolves 137-114.
The results signal a shift in early-season momentum, with Portland making a statement against the in-form Thunder and several top contenders reaffirming their championship credentials.
