New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder Match Player Stats

The new orleans pelicans vs oklahoma city thunder match player stats from the April 14, 2025 NBA regular season finale reveal much more than the final 115 to 100 scoreline. While the Oklahoma City Thunder completed a dominant season sweep over the New Orleans Pelicans, the individual performances, team efficiency, and game flow provide valuable insight into how the contest unfolded. Whether you are looking for a complete statistical breakdown, standout player performances, or an in depth analysis of both teams, this guide covers every important detail using verified game data.

Played at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, the matchup attracted 17,761 fans who watched the Thunder improve their remarkable regular season record to 68 wins and 14 losses. Although several familiar stars were unavailable, the game showcased impressive contributions from emerging players on both rosters. Aaron Wiggins delivered an outstanding all around performance for Oklahoma City, while Antonio Reeves led New Orleans in scoring. Beyond the box score, this game also highlighted the Thunder’s depth, defensive consistency, and ability to control the pace despite modest shooting from beyond the arc.

If you are searching for a detailed statistical review instead of a quick box score, this article explains what happened quarter by quarter, compares team numbers, evaluates every major player performance, and discusses what these results meant for both franchises heading into the offseason.

Match Overview

The final meeting between these Western Conference teams took place on April 14, 2025 at the Smoothie King Center. Oklahoma City entered the game with the NBA’s best regular season record, while New Orleans looked to finish a difficult campaign on a positive note.

Game Information

Match Detail	Information
Date	April 14, 2025
Venue	Smoothie King Center
Location	New Orleans, Louisiana
Attendance	17,761
Final Score	Oklahoma City Thunder 115, New Orleans Pelicans 100
Winning Team	Oklahoma City Thunder
Thunder Record	68 and 14
Pelicans Record	21 and 61

The victory also completed a perfect 4 and 0 season series for Oklahoma City.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder Match Player Stats

Player statistics often tell the real story of a basketball game. In this matchup, Oklahoma City’s balanced scoring attack proved too much for New Orleans despite respectable individual efforts from several Pelicans players.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Stats

Player	Points	Rebounds	Assists
Aaron Wiggins	28	7	7
Branden Carlson	26	10	2
Kenrich Williams	17	12	2
Isaiah Joe	Solid supporting role
Jaylin Williams	Valuable defensive minutes

Aaron Wiggins emerged as the game’s biggest offensive contributor. His 28 points came through efficient shot selection, while adding seven assists that demonstrated his ability to create opportunities for teammates. His balanced offensive performance allowed Oklahoma City to remain in control throughout most of the contest.

Branden Carlson provided perhaps the biggest surprise of the evening. Coming off the bench, he poured in 26 points and gave the Thunder a major scoring boost whenever the starters rested. His contribution highlighted the remarkable depth Oklahoma City possessed throughout the regular season.

Kenrich Williams quietly produced one of his most complete games of the year. Recording a double double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, he controlled the glass while providing physical defense inside the paint.

New Orleans Pelicans Player Stats

Player	Points	Rebounds	Assists
Antonio Reeves	20	6	2
Jeremiah Robinson Earl	10	16	2
Lester Quinones	14	3	6
Jamal Cain	18	5	2
Elfrid Payton	Key facilitator

Antonio Reeves led all Pelicans scorers with 20 points. Throughout the game, he remained aggressive attacking the basket and knocking down open opportunities. Although his effort kept New Orleans competitive for stretches, he lacked consistent offensive support from the starting lineup.

Jeremiah Robinson Earl dominated the boards with an impressive 16 rebounds. His work on both the offensive and defensive glass prevented several second chance opportunities for Oklahoma City while creating extra possessions for New Orleans.

Lester Quinones served as the team’s primary playmaker by finishing with six assists. His passing created quality looks for teammates, but the Pelicans struggled to consistently convert those opportunities into points.

Jamal Cain also deserves recognition after scoring 18 points off the bench. His energy helped New Orleans remain competitive during several second half stretches.

Quarter by Quarter Analysis

Breaking down each quarter helps explain how Oklahoma City gradually separated itself from New Orleans.

First Quarter

The Thunder immediately established momentum by scoring 38 points while limiting the Pelicans to only 19.

This early advantage came from efficient transition offense, aggressive rebounding, and forcing New Orleans into difficult shots. By the end of the opening period, Oklahoma City had already built a comfortable cushion that shaped the remainder of the game.

Quarter Score

Team	Points
Thunder	38
Pelicans	19

Second Quarter

New Orleans responded with greater intensity during the second period.

The Pelicans outscored Oklahoma City 30 to 26 by improving ball movement and attacking inside rather than relying on perimeter shooting. Antonio Reeves and Jamal Cain played major roles during this stretch, helping reduce the halftime deficit.

Despite losing the quarter, Oklahoma City maintained control because of its dominant first period.

Third Quarter

Coming out of halftime, the Thunder regained control.

Their defense tightened considerably, limiting New Orleans to 23 points while scoring 26 themselves. Aaron Wiggins continued attacking the rim, and Kenrich Williams controlled the boards to prevent second chance opportunities.

This steady performance effectively ended any realistic comeback hopes.

Fourth Quarter

Both teams continued competing until the final buzzer.

New Orleans slightly improved offensively with 28 points, but Oklahoma City answered with 25 to comfortably secure the victory.

The Thunder avoided unnecessary turnovers late in the game and consistently converted free throws whenever the Pelicans attempted to increase defensive pressure.

Complete Team Statistics Comparison

Although neither team shot particularly well from three point range, Oklahoma City proved more efficient in several critical statistical categories.

Category	Thunder	Pelicans
Points	115	100
Field Goals	41 of 98	35 of 91
Field Goal Percentage	42 percent	38 percent
Three Pointers	9 of 47	7 of 38
Three Point Percentage	19 percent	18 percent
Free Throws	24 of 27	23 of 30
Free Throw Percentage	89 percent	77 percent
Total Rebounds	54	47
Assists	16	22
Turnovers	10	12
Steals	8	6
Blocks	4	4
Personal Fouls	25	19

These statistics illustrate why Oklahoma City won despite recording fewer assists.

Their advantages came through better rebounding, more efficient free throw shooting, fewer turnovers, and stronger defensive execution during crucial stretches of the game.

How Oklahoma City Thunder Controlled the Game

The final score of 115 to 100 does not fully explain the way Oklahoma City managed this contest. The Thunder’s victory was built on several important areas that often decide NBA games: rebounding, bench production, defensive discipline, and maintaining offensive pressure.

The new orleans pelicans vs oklahoma city thunder match player stats show that Oklahoma City did not rely on one single player to win. Instead, the team received major contributions from multiple players, which has been a defining characteristic of successful teams throughout NBA history.

Thunder’s Offensive Balance Made the Difference

One of the biggest differences between the two teams was Oklahoma City’s ability to create scoring opportunities from different positions.

Aaron Wiggins led the team with 28 points, but the Thunder also received 26 points from Branden Carlson and a double double from Kenrich Williams. This balance prevented New Orleans from focusing defensive attention on only one player.

In modern basketball, teams that depend heavily on one scorer often struggle when opponents adjust defensively. Oklahoma City avoided that problem because multiple players were capable of creating offense.

The Thunder finished the game with:

• 41 made field goals
• 115 total points
• 24 made free throws
• 54 total rebounds
• Only 10 turnovers

The free throw numbers were especially important. Oklahoma City converted 24 of 27 attempts from the line, creating additional scoring opportunities even when outside shooting was inconsistent.

Three Point Shooting Was Not the Main Story

Both teams struggled from long distance.

The Thunder made only 9 of 47 three point attempts, while the Pelicans converted 7 of 38. Those percentages were below what teams usually aim for during a regular season game.

However, Oklahoma City showed that effective offense does not always require elite three point shooting. The Thunder compensated by attacking inside, drawing fouls, and controlling possessions.

This is an important lesson when analyzing basketball statistics. A team can win despite poor perimeter shooting if it dominates other areas such as rebounding, turnovers, and free throw efficiency.

Rebounding Battle Favored Oklahoma City

Rebounding was one of the clearest advantages in the game.

The Thunder collected 54 total rebounds compared with New Orleans’ 47. That seven rebound advantage created extra possessions and reduced the Pelicans’ ability to generate second chance opportunities.

Kenrich Williams played a major role in this area with 12 rebounds. His physical presence helped Oklahoma City control the interior throughout the game.

For New Orleans, Jeremiah Robinson Earl responded with an impressive 16 rebounds. His performance was one of the strongest individual rebounding efforts on either team and showed his ability to compete against a deeper Thunder frontcourt.

Bench Performance Changed the Momentum

The difference between the two benches was one of the most important factors in the final result.

Branden Carlson was the standout reserve player, scoring 26 points for Oklahoma City. His offensive production allowed the Thunder to maintain pressure even when their regular starters were not on the court.

New Orleans also received valuable bench scoring from Jamal Cain, who finished with 18 points. However, the Pelicans did not receive enough consistent scoring from their reserves to match Oklahoma City’s overall depth.

Bench production is often overlooked when casual viewers look only at the final score. However, teams competing at a high level usually need reliable contributions beyond the starting lineup.

Defensive Comparison Between Both Teams

Defense played a major role in deciding the outcome.

Oklahoma City recorded:

• 8 steals
• 4 blocks
• 10 turnovers forced through defensive pressure

New Orleans recorded:

• 6 steals
• 4 blocks
• 12 turnovers committed

The Thunder’s defensive approach focused on limiting efficient scoring chances rather than simply forcing difficult shots. Their ability to create defensive stops helped them maintain control after the Pelicans improved during the second quarter.

New Orleans showed effort defensively but struggled to consistently stop Oklahoma City’s balanced attack.

Key Individual Matchups

Aaron Wiggins vs Pelicans Perimeter Defense

Aaron Wiggins was the most influential offensive player in the game.

His 28 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists created problems because he contributed in multiple areas. Defenders could not simply focus on stopping his scoring because he also created opportunities for teammates.

His performance represented the value of versatile players who can impact games without needing constant isolation possessions.

Kenrich Williams vs Pelicans Frontcourt

Kenrich Williams provided the type of physical presence that helps teams win difficult games.

His 12 rebounds were crucial, especially because both teams struggled from three point range. When outside shots are not falling, rebounding becomes even more valuable because extra possessions can determine the outcome.

Antonio Reeves’ Offensive Responsibility

Antonio Reeves carried much of the scoring responsibility for New Orleans.

His 20 points made him the Pelicans’ leading scorer, but Oklahoma City’s defensive pressure prevented him from finding enough consistent support.

The Pelicans needed more efficient offensive production from multiple positions to overcome the Thunder’s depth.

What the Match Reveals About Both Teams

The statistical story of this game reflects two teams in very different situations.

Oklahoma City entered the matchup with a 68 and 14 record, showing the consistency and depth that helped them become one of the NBA’s strongest teams during the regular season.

New Orleans finished the year with a 21 and 61 record, and this game reflected some of the challenges they faced throughout the season. Despite individual bright spots, maintaining consistent production across all four quarters remained difficult.

The season series also showed Oklahoma City’s control over the matchup. The Thunder won all four meetings:

• November 14: Thunder won 106 to 88
• December 8: Thunder won 119 to 109
• February 11: Thunder won 137 to 101
• April 14: Thunder won 115 to 100

The consistency across these games demonstrates Oklahoma City’s ability to exploit matchup advantages against New Orleans.

Statistical Lessons From the Game

Looking beyond the final score, several basketball lessons stand out.

1. Depth Can Beat Individual Production

New Orleans had strong performances from players like Antonio Reeves, Jeremiah Robinson Earl, and Jamal Cain. However, Oklahoma City received contributions from more players.

A balanced team approach often creates more reliable results over a long season.

2. Efficiency Matters More Than Shot Volume

The Thunder attempted 98 field goals compared with New Orleans’ 91 attempts. Their advantage came from converting opportunities more effectively and getting to the free throw line.

3. Rebounding Creates Winning Opportunities

Oklahoma City’s seven rebound advantage may appear small, but those extra possessions can create a significant difference over four quarters.

4. Turnovers Can Change Game Flow

The Thunder committed only 10 turnovers, while New Orleans committed 12. Protecting the basketball helped Oklahoma City prevent momentum shifts.

Player Performance Ratings Based on Impact

While official player ratings vary by source, a practical evaluation based on scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and overall influence would highlight these performances:

Oklahoma City Thunder

Aaron Wiggins

• 28 points
• 7 rebounds
• 7 assists
• Best overall offensive performance

Branden Carlson

• 26 points
• Major bench impact
• Changed the scoring rhythm of the game

Kenrich Williams

• 17 points
• 12 rebounds
• Strong interior contribution

New Orleans Pelicans

Antonio Reeves

• 20 points
• Leading scorer
• Provided consistent offensive pressure

Jeremiah Robinson Earl

• 16 rebounds
• Dominated the boards
• Created extra possessions

Jamal Cain

• 18 points
• Strong bench contribution

This type of analysis provides more context than simply listing points scored. Basketball games are decided through many connected factors, and player impact extends beyond one statistic.

Advanced Breakdown of New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder Match Player Stats

A deeper look at the new orleans pelicans vs oklahoma city thunder match player stats shows how small advantages throughout the game combined to create Oklahoma City’s 15 point victory. The Thunder did not win because of one extraordinary shooting night or a single dominant statistical category. Instead, they built their success through consistent execution in multiple areas.

For basketball analysts, box scores are only the starting point. The real value comes from understanding why those numbers happened and how they influenced the result.

Offensive Efficiency Analysis

Oklahoma City scored 115 points while shooting 41 of 98 from the field. Although their 42 percent field goal percentage was not elite, they produced enough quality opportunities to maintain offensive pressure.

New Orleans scored 100 points on 35 of 91 shooting, finishing at 38 percent from the field.

The difference between the two offenses was not simply shooting percentage. Several other factors contributed:

• Oklahoma City created more free throw opportunities
• The Thunder collected more offensive and defensive rebounds
• Oklahoma City committed fewer turnovers
• Multiple players contributed meaningful scoring

A team can overcome average shooting when it consistently creates additional possessions and avoids mistakes.

Free Throw Advantage Played a Major Role

Free throw shooting was one of the clearest statistical advantages for Oklahoma City.

The Thunder attempted 27 free throws and made 24, producing an excellent 89 percent conversion rate.

The Pelicans attempted 30 free throws but made only 23, converting at 77 percent.

Although New Orleans reached the line more often, Oklahoma City’s accuracy created a stronger scoring return.

This difference contributed directly to the final margin. In close NBA games, free throw efficiency often separates winning and losing teams.

Assist Numbers Tell an Interesting Story

The Pelicans actually finished with more assists than the Thunder.

New Orleans recorded:

• 22 assists

Oklahoma City recorded:

• 16 assists

At first glance, this may suggest that the Pelicans moved the ball better. However, assists alone do not determine offensive success.

New Orleans struggled to convert enough of those created opportunities into points. Oklahoma City, meanwhile, produced efficient scoring through individual creation and strong finishing around the basket.

This is an important example of why basketball statistics should always be analyzed together rather than separately.

Turnover Management and Possession Control

Possession management was another key factor.

The Thunder committed 10 turnovers, while the Pelicans committed 12.

The difference of two turnovers may appear minor, but every possession matters in an NBA game. Avoiding unnecessary mistakes allowed Oklahoma City to maximize its offensive opportunities.

Teams with strong defensive identities often turn small possession advantages into large scoreboard differences over four quarters.

Impact of Starting Lineups

Thunder Starting Lineup Performance

Oklahoma City started:

• Jaylin Williams
• Dillon Jones
• Kenrich Williams
• Isaiah Joe
• Aaron Wiggins

The group provided a combination of shooting, rebounding, and defensive activity.

Aaron Wiggins was the standout starter, leading the team in scoring and assists. Kenrich Williams added physicality through rebounding, helping the starting unit establish control inside.

The Thunder starters did not need to dominate every statistical category because the bench provided significant support.

Pelicans Starting Lineup Performance

New Orleans started:

• Jeremiah Robinson Earl
• Keion Brooks Jr.
• Elfrid Payton
• Jose Alvarado
• Antonio Reeves

Antonio Reeves provided the strongest offensive production from the starting group.

Jeremiah Robinson Earl was highly effective on the boards, collecting 16 rebounds and giving New Orleans extra possessions.

However, the Pelicans struggled to generate enough scoring balance from the starting lineup. When one or two players carry most of the offensive responsibility, opposing defenses can adjust more easily.

The Importance of Bench Contributions

Modern NBA success depends heavily on bench performance.

The Oklahoma City bench delivered one of the biggest differences in the game. Branden Carlson scored 26 points, giving the Thunder immediate offensive energy.

Other Thunder reserves included:

• Adam Flagler
• Alex Ducas
• Ajay Mitchell
• Ousmane Dieng
• Alex Caruso
• Cason Wallace

New Orleans received important contributions from:

• Jamal Cain
• Kylor Kelley
• Lester Quinones
• Karlo Matkovic
• Yves Missi
• Bruce Brown

Jamal Cain’s 18 points helped keep the Pelicans competitive, but Oklahoma City’s overall bench production was more impactful.

Why the Thunder Won Despite Poor Three Point Shooting

Three point shooting usually receives significant attention in modern basketball analysis. However, this matchup demonstrates that teams can win without exceptional perimeter accuracy.

Oklahoma City:

• Three point attempts: 47
• Three point makes: 9
• Three point percentage: 19 percent

New Orleans:

• Three point attempts: 38
• Three point makes: 7
• Three point percentage: 18 percent

Both teams struggled from distance.

The Thunder compensated through:

1. Strong rebounding
2. Better free throw shooting
3. Lower turnover numbers
4. Balanced scoring
5. Defensive consistency

This is an important reminder that winning basketball requires complete execution rather than dependence on one offensive category.

Real World Basketball Analysis: What Fans Can Learn From Box Scores

A common mistake when reading NBA statistics is focusing only on points.

A player scoring 20 points does not automatically mean they had the biggest impact. Rebounding, passing, defensive activity, and efficiency all influence the outcome.

For example:

• Aaron Wiggins impacted the game through scoring and playmaking.
• Kenrich Williams influenced the game through rebounding and physical defense.
• Jeremiah Robinson Earl helped New Orleans by controlling the boards.
• Branden Carlson changed the momentum through bench scoring.

This approach is similar to how professional analysts evaluate players. They look for patterns rather than isolated numbers.

For additional basketball analytics concepts and statistical explanations, readers can explore resources from NBA official statistics to better understand how modern performance metrics are evaluated.

Challenges When Interpreting Match Statistics

Although box scores provide valuable information, they also have limitations.

Player Roles Matter

A starter and a bench player may have different responsibilities. A reserve scoring 20 points in limited minutes can be just as valuable as a starter scoring the same amount.

Game Situation Matters

Statistics do not always show when important plays happened.

A player who scores during a close fourth quarter situation may have a different impact compared with someone scoring after the game is already decided.

Team Context Matters

Individual numbers are influenced by teammates, coaching decisions, and opponent strategies.

A complete evaluation requires understanding the entire game environment.

Lessons for Future Matchup Analysis

When evaluating future games between these teams or similar NBA matchups, several factors should be monitored:

Monitor Rebounding Margin

Teams that control rebounds usually create more scoring opportunities.

Watch Bench Production

Strong reserve performances can completely change game momentum.

Evaluate Turnover Trends

Protecting possessions remains one of the most reliable indicators of winning basketball.

Look Beyond Shooting Percentages

A team can overcome average shooting through defense, free throws, and rebounding.

The April 14 matchup between Oklahoma City and New Orleans is a strong example of why complete statistical analysis provides more value than a simple final score summary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the top scorer in the New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder game?

Aaron Wiggins was the leading scorer for the Oklahoma City Thunder with 28 points. For the New Orleans Pelicans, Antonio Reeves led the team with 20 points. Wiggins also contributed seven rebounds and seven assists, making his performance one of the most complete individual efforts of the game.

What was the final score between the Thunder and Pelicans on April 14, 2025?

The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 115 to 100 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The victory gave Oklahoma City a 4 and 0 season series sweep over New Orleans.

Which player had the most rebounds in the game?

Jeremiah Robinson Earl recorded the most rebounds for the New Orleans Pelicans with 16. For the Oklahoma City Thunder, Kenrich Williams led the team with 12 rebounds and finished with a double double by adding 17 points.

How did the Thunder win despite poor three point shooting?

Oklahoma City won because of stronger overall execution. The Thunder controlled the rebounding battle, shot better from the free throw line, committed fewer turnovers, and received major contributions from their bench. Both teams struggled from three point range, but Oklahoma City was more effective in other areas.

How many times did Oklahoma City defeat New Orleans during the 2024 to 2025 season?

The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the New Orleans Pelicans four times during the season. The Thunder won all four meetings, including the April 14 matchup with a 115 to 100 victory.

Conclusion

The new orleans pelicans vs oklahoma city thunder match player stats from April 14, 2025, provide a detailed picture of how Oklahoma City secured a convincing 115 to 100 win. The Thunder’s success came from balanced scoring, strong rebounding, efficient free throw shooting, and excellent contributions from their bench.

Aaron Wiggins delivered the standout performance with 28 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, while Branden Carlson added 26 points as a major reserve contributor. Kenrich Williams strengthened Oklahoma City’s interior presence with 12 rebounds and 17 points.

For New Orleans, Antonio Reeves led the scoring effort with 20 points, while Jeremiah Robinson Earl’s 16 rebounds showed strong individual effort on the boards. Jamal Cain also provided valuable energy with 18 points from the bench.

The game showed that winning basketball is not always about one dominant statistic. Oklahoma City succeeded because multiple areas worked together. Their ability to create extra possessions, limit mistakes, and receive production from different players allowed them to complete a perfect season sweep against New Orleans.

The matchup also highlighted the importance of analyzing basketball beyond the final score. Player contributions, team efficiency, defensive pressure, and possession control all explain why the Thunder finished with the advantage.