OKLAHOMA CITY – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander etched his name into NBA history Thursday night, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain’s legendary streak of consecutive games with at least 20 points scored. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard reached the milestone with a jumper against the Boston Celtics, extending his streak to 127 games and securing a record that stood for over six decades.
The 27-year-old Canadian, the reigning NBA Most Valuable Player and a champion with the Thunder, ignited a raucous celebration at Paycom Center when he surpassed Chamberlain’s mark. He finished the game with 35 points, 9 assists, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals in a 104-102 victory over Boston, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier talents.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s remarkable run began on November 1, 2024, a date that now stands alongside Chamberlain’s October 19, 1961, as pivotal moments in NBA scoring history. The consistency displayed by Gilgeous-Alexander throughout this streak is particularly noteworthy, a testament to his all-around game and unwavering focus.
“None of the things I accomplish would matter if we weren’t winning,” Gilgeous-Alexander told reporters after the game. “I probably wouldn’t have the streak if we weren’t winning. I realize that and I understand that. It’s why you play the game. I was crying when I was nine years old because I lost an (Ontario Basketball Association) championship. You don’t want to lose. The streak is the streak. The awards are the awards. But the thing I’m most proud of is winning.”
A Historic Feat
Chamberlain’s record, established during an era of unparalleled individual dominance, had long been considered nearly untouchable. During his streak, Chamberlain famously scored 100 points in a single game – a feat that remains a benchmark of scoring prowess – and averaged over 50 points per game during the 1961-62 season. His streak ended abruptly on February 26, 1963, after just four minutes of play due to an ejection following a dispute over a foul call against a teammate. He immediately began a second lengthy streak of 20-point games, ultimately reaching 92.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency has been equally impressive, maintaining an average of 32.5 points throughout his streak. He has reached the 20-point threshold in every regular season game played during this stretch, with only three instances in the playoffs where he fell short. Even while battling a recent abdominal injury, he managed to reach 20 points on February 3rd before exiting the game.
The Thunder’s head coach, Mark Daigneault, emphasized Gilgeous-Alexander’s unwavering concentration as the key to his success. “That’s what’s most impressive about him,” Daigneault said. “We all tend to let up after success, but he’s the opposite. He savors the win, he wants more, he wants to compete.”
A Legacy of Consistency
Before Gilgeous-Alexander’s achievement, only Oscar Robertson had reach close to challenging Chamberlain’s record, reaching 79 consecutive 20-point games in the 1960s. More recently, Kevin Durant and Michael Jordan both achieved streaks of 72 games. LeBron James holds the record for the most consecutive games with at least 10 points scored (1,297), but his longest streak of 20-point games is 49. Chamberlain also holds the record for consecutive games with 30 or more points, with 65 straight games during the 1961-62 season, 33 more than the next highest, James Harden.
This record isn’t just about scoring volume; it’s about sustained excellence. Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to consistently contribute offensively, even while facing double-teams and defensive schemes designed to contain him, is a testament to his skill and basketball IQ. It’s a record built on historic consistency, fitting for a player who once declared, “My whole life is consistent, everything I do.”
The crowd at Paycom Center recognized the significance of the moment, erupting in cheers as Gilgeous-Alexander secured the record. Play was briefly halted to allow the fans to acknowledge the accomplishment, a fitting tribute to a player who has brought so much excitement to Oklahoma City.
The Oklahoma City Thunder will continue their season on Saturday, March 15th, against the Sacramento Kings. Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder will look to build on their recent success and continue their pursuit of a championship. Fans can follow the team’s progress and receive official updates on the NBA website and through the Thunder’s official social media channels.
