OKC’s confidence shined through a ‘brave’ comeback win against the Grizzlies

Oklahoma City Transcript The Thunder never gave up against the Memphis Grizzliestrailing by 21 points and missing two starters, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Isaiah Hartenstein. On the cusp of a fourth-quarter comeback, All-Star Jalen Williams found Kenrich Williams for a 3-pointer that gave the Thunder a lead they would hold on to in a 117-116 victory.

Without Hartenstein and Jaylin Williams, Williams’ third-string role expanded, as his 21-point performance forced coach Mark Dayno to hold him before Kenrich drained a 3-pointer that would have sealed the one-point victory. Williams thought about making the winning shot during his media availability after the game.

“It’s just about trusting your work and believing in God,” Williams said. “Dub made a great pass. I was open. He drew two. I’m just shooting with confidence. I believe every shot is going. But man, that was a gutsy win.”

Jalen Williams finished with 26 points, 10 assists and five rebounds. Ajay Mitchell had 23 points, six assists and three rebounds, and Kenrich Williams added 21 points, eight rebounds and two steals.

Mark Daigneault on Kenrich Williams’ shot in the Thunder’s win

Despite that The Thunder are without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren for Friday’s matchup against the Grizzlies, coach Mark Daigneault watched Kenrich Williams lead the way with a game-high 21 points. Kenrich also drained the game’s most critical shot, a 3-pointer that would have sealed the Thunder’s comeback win of the season, 32nd.

Daigneault was delighted with Williams 21 point performance in the win.

“I’m so happy for him — he’s such a big part of our team. He’s got a great soul, he’s got such respect in the locker room and his role,” Daigneault said. “He played 28 minutes tonight. It had to be the highlight of the season. He’s the same guy every day. He’s so invested in the team. He’s two feet inside. And when his number is called, he’s ready to compete. His competitiveness was on display tonight.”

“Not only with the offensive burst that he had, but to play the majority of the minutes in the box, and to play that many minutes in the box against a team that obviously has physical strength up front, is impressive.”

The Thunder will host the Heat at Paicom Center on Sunday.