In a stunning Sunday night showdown, the Miami Heat delivered a massive upset by defeating the defending champion and league-leading Oklahoma City Thunder, 122-120. The thrilling NBA matchup, held in Miami, Florida on January 18, 2026 (Philippine Time), was decided in the final seconds by a clutch three-pointer.
Dramatic Finish Seals Thunder's Fate
The game came down to the wire with the score tied in the closing moments. With just 31 seconds remaining on the clock, Andrew Wiggins sank a crucial three-point shot to give the Heat a 122-120 lead. The game-winning assist came from guard Norman Powell, who finished the night with 19 points. This basket ultimately proved to be the difference, snapping the Thunder's impressive five-game winning streak.
Star Performances Light Up the Court
Heat big man Bam Adebayo had a phenomenal night, pouring in 30 points and shocking fans by hitting a career-high six three-pointers. Adebayo also dominated the boards with 12 rebounds and added 4 assists. Rookie Pelle Larsson contributed significantly with 16 points and a game-high 7 assists.
For the Thunder, reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with a game-high 39 points, but his heroic effort wasn't enough to secure the victory. Versatile big man Chet Holmgren recorded a solid double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort.
Standings Shakeup and What's Next
Despite the loss, the Oklahoma City Thunder maintain their top position in the league with an outstanding 35-8 win-loss record. The Miami Heat, meanwhile, are fighting for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, currently holding the eighth spot with a 22-20 record. This victory serves as a major statement for the Heat, proving they can compete with and beat the league's very best teams.
