UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-109 on Saturday night, marking the Thunder’s second loss this season and propelling the Spurs into the NBA Cup final. This victory is particularly significant as it ends the Thunder’s impressive 16-game winning streak.
Victor Wembanyama made a triumphant return from a 12-game absence, contributing 22 points and 9 rebounds. His performance not only energized the Spurs but also sent shockwaves through the pro-Spurs crowd in Las Vegas. Wembanyama’s impact was immediate, receiving enthusiastic “MVP” chants from fans as he showcased his skills on the court.
The Spurs will now face the New York Knicks in the final on Tuesday night, a matchup that promises high stakes following this thrilling semifinal. Oklahoma’s last defeat occurred on November 5 against Portland, and they now hold a record of 24-2, the second-best start in NBA history, trailing only the Golden State Warriors who began the 2015-16 season at 25-1.
Wembanyama had been sidelined due to a strained left calf but returned to the court with a minutes restriction that did not hinder his effectiveness. He posted an impressive plus-21 rating in just 21 minutes of play. Teammate Devin Vassell added 23 points, while De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle chipped in with 22 points each, demonstrating a balanced team effort.
Despite being down by three points at halftime, the Spurs rallied with a crucial 13-point run, setting the stage for an intense second half. Their momentum surged with a 10-point run in the third quarter, allowing them to take a decisive lead of 62-56.
On the Thunder’s side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 29 points, while Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams contributed 17 points each. This marks the Thunder’s second consecutive loss in Las Vegas, having also fallen to the Milwaukee Bucks in last year’s final.
“We showed resilience and determination tonight,” said Wembanyama, reflecting on the team’s performance. “This win is a testament to our hard work.”
As anticipation builds for the final against the Knicks, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the Spurs can carry this momentum forward. The NBA Cup final is set for Tuesday night, and all eyes will be on Wembanyama and his teammates as they aim for championship glory.
This developing story will continue to unfold as the Spurs prepare for their next challenge. Stay tuned for updates as the excitement around the NBA Cup intensifies.
