Suns vs Thunder: Clash of NBA Titans

The NBA's brightest rivalry ignites as the Phoenix Suns face the Oklahoma City Thunder in a pivotal NBA Cup showdown on Friday, November 28, 2025. With tip-off at 9:30 PM EST from Paycom Center, this matchup features the league's most dominant team against a surprising contender fighting for postseason positioning.

The Thunder: Unstoppable Force

Oklahoma City enters as the NBA's last remaining unbeaten team at 18-1, boasting the league's best point differential (+16.5), top defense, and third-ranked offense. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues his MVP-caliber campaign, averaging 32.6 points while adding 4.9 rebounds and 6.6 assists. The Thunder's championship pedigree is undeniable, especially with the return of All-Star forward Jalen Williams from offseason wrist surgery. Coach Mark Daigneault's squad excels in transition, forcing 18.3 turnovers per game – the NBA's best.

Suns: Resilient Underdogs

Despite a 12-7 record marred by injuries, Phoenix has emerged as a dangerous team. Stars Devin Booker (26 PPG, 6.9 APG) and Dillon Brooks (21.3 PPG) have carried the load during absences. The Suns are tied atop NBA Cup West Group A at 3-0, making this a must-win for securing the top seed. Their recent 25-point first-quarter demolition of the Kings showcased offensive firepower, but turnovers remain a concern (26th in the league at 16.6 per game).

Key Matchups to Watch

• Brooks vs. Gilgeous-Alexander: The defensive stopper faces the MVP in a battle of wills. Brooks averages 3.5 fouls per game – staying out of foul trouble is crucial.
• Paint Dominance: Suns center Mark Williams (12.9 PPG, 8.9 RPG) battles Thunder duo Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein.
• Turnover Battle: Phoenix's league-worst turnover defense (22.1 points allowed off giveaways) against OKC's league-best pressure.

"It's going to be a great test for us. They have it rolling. They're playing some of the best basketball the NBA has ever seen."
— Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns

NBA Cup Implications

With both teams 3-0 in Group A, the winner clinches the top seed and home-court advantage in the quarterfinals. A Suns loss could still secure a wild-card spot if they maintain their superior point differential (+35) over the Grizzlies (+9) and Clippers (-15).

Betting Insights

The Thunder are heavy favorites (-14.5 spread, -1100 moneyline), with the over/under set at 225.5. Key betting angles include:

• Gilgeous-Alexander Over 30.5 Points: He's cleared this line in 16 of 19 games and has scored 31+ in four straight contests against Phoenix.
• Thunder -9.5 Alternative Spread: Thirteen of Oklahoma City's 18 wins came by 10+ points.

What to Expect

Phoenix's road struggles (4-4 record) meet Oklahoma City's perfect home record (9-0). Expect a playoff atmosphere with the Thunder's defensive intensity clashing with the Suns' half-court execution. For Phoenix, this is a chance to prove they belong among the league's elite. For Oklahoma City, it's another step toward defending their crown.

Don't miss this Friday night spectacle that could shape the NBA Cup landscape!