Duop Reath was the catalyst in seizing the momentum for the Blazers. He buried three triples in the second period (nine points) to steady the ship, then beat the third-quarter buzzer with another long-range make to trim it to 86–81. From there, Jrue Holiday took control: a pull-up gave the Blazers their first lead at 97–96 with 6:44 left; on the next trip, a backcourt violation forced by Portland’s defence set up Holiday’s three-pointer for 100–96.
Oklahoma City weren’t done. Aaron Wiggins (27) rattled off five straight to edge the Thunder back ahead 101–100, and the lead changed hands repeatedly until Jerami Grant (20 off the bench) nudged Portland in front 105–104. In the closing seconds, Holiday’s composure iced it: two free throws with six seconds remaining made it 121–118. After a review ruled Isaiah Joe’s last-gasp jumper a two, he hit the first free throw, intentionally missed the second, and OKC’s tip attempt fell short as time expired.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was majestic with 35 points, but the Thunder were shorthanded — Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort and Alex Caruso all sat after the previous night’s win in Los Angeles. Even so, Portland’s blend of grit, adjustments, and late-game execution made this game among the week’s standout contests.