Mark Daigneault’s honest ‘big soul’ against OKC reserves in 21-point comeback

With shorthand Oklahoma City The Thunder are missing All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and starting forward Chet Holmgren, head coach Mark Daigneault watched Kenrich Williams help erase a 21-point deficit against the Memphis Grizzlies. Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace have also been ruled out for Friday’s game. Still, the Thunder persevered, knocking off the Grizzlies – 117-116 – in emphatic fashion.

Jalen Williams’ double-double (26 points, 10 assists) led five Thunder players in double figures. Kenrick’s 3-pointer with 1:07 left (115-114) capped a 21-point night for the veteran reserve, whose minimal role extended to a clutch moment. After the victory, Daigneault talked about Williams’ influence.

“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.”

Thunder head coach Marc Daigneault watched Williams go 8-13 from the floor, including 3-of-7 from deep. He also finished with eight rebounds and two steals. Ajay Mitchell added 23 points and six assists.

Kenrich Williams shines in Thunder’s comeback win

Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rested after beating the Jazzand the defending champions added another to their winning streak, led by Thunder veteran Kenrich Williams, whose presence was felt on both ends of the floor. Facing a 21-point deficit, Williams says, taking things one possession at a time changed the Grizzlies’ momentum in the second half.

“I don’t think it was a good game at all. We bounced back for sure,” Williams said. “They hit a ton of shots. I don’t think we hit that many shots early. Down 20, just finding a way, canceling. No matter the situation or whatever was going on, we just took it one at a time. Just grit. Big shout out to everyone who played tonight.”

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