Thunder Strike First: OKC Takes Game 1 Against Pelicans; Shai Turns On The MVP Mode

The Oklahoma City Thunder took a 1-0 lead after narrowly defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 94-92 on Sunday night.

Despite a tight contest, the Thunder managed to pull ahead in the final stages of the fourth quarter to secure the win in Game 1.Heading into the fourth quarter, the Thunder held a slim lead, but the Pelicans made a strong comeback, tying the game in the closing minutes.With less than a minute left, rookie standout Chet Holmgren delivered a crucial block, and MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored an important and-one play, giving Oklahoma City a three-point lead.Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance was instrumental, finishing the night with 28 points, six rebounds, and four assists.Despite the tense victory, fans applauded the young Thunder team, many of whom were playing in their first playoff game.