NBA Playoffs: Thunder Begin Title Defense with Convincing Win

The Oklahoma City Thunder commenced their title defense with a resounding 119-84 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Game 1 of their first-round Western Conference playoff series. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 25 points, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren contributed 22 and 16 points, respectively. The top-seeded Thunder will host Game 2 on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Devin Booker scored 23 points for the Suns, who struggled with 34.9% field goal shooting. In other playoff action, Jayson Tatum returned from injury to score 25 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists as the Boston Celtics dominated the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91. Victor Wembanyama made a stunning playoff debut, scoring 35 points to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 111-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.