Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 25 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder outshone Denver during crucial moments, defeating the Nuggets 92-87 on Sunday, leveling their second-round playoff series at two wins each.

The Thunder faced a 69-63 deficit heading into the final quarter, trailing by eight after Peyton Watson opened the fourth with a hook shot. However, Oklahoma City surged with an 11-0 run, thanks to contributions from their reserves, notably Cason Wallace with two 3-pointers, and Aaron Wiggins who netted another.

Wallace’s second 3-pointer secured an important lead at 75-73 for the Thunder.

Despite earlier triumphs against the youngest team in the NBA, the Nuggets were unable to capitalize on their experience, after Aaron Gordon’s jumper extended their lead to 73-66.

Nevertheless, in a gripping finish, it was the Thunder who struck decisively during crunch time, with the Nuggets losing their chance to advance to a commanding 3-1 series lead.

The teams will meet again for Game 5 in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder previously had a 43-point rout of Denver in Game 2.

Nikola Jokić led the Nuggets with 27 points and 13 rebounds, while Jamal Murray and Christian Braun contributed 17 points each. Gordon finished with 15 points, and Michael Porter Jr. only managed 3 points after scoring 15 in a prior game.

Wiggins and Wallace added 11 points, and both Alex Caruso and Jalen Williams scored 10.

The playoff encounter was marked by physicality and fatigue, as both teams struggled through an underwhelming first half which saw a combined 25-point opening quarter, matching a playoff record for fewest points.

By halftime, Oklahoma City held a narrow lead of 42-36.