The Western Conference finals are headed back to Oklahoma City for a decisive Game 7 after Victor Wembanyama delivered a dominant response in the biggest game of San Antonio’s season. Facing elimination Thursday night, the Spurs overwhelmed the Oklahoma City Thunder 118-91 at Frost Bank Center, evening the series at 3-3 behind a wire-to-wire performance fueled by defense, rebounding and a fast start from their franchise star.
Wembanyama finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks and two steals in just 28 minutes, helping San Antonio seize control early and never relinquish it. The 22-year-old hit his first three attempts from beyond the arc and had 22 points by halftime after criticism surrounding his quieter showing in Game 5.
The Spurs turned the game into a rout during a dominant third quarter, outscoring Oklahoma City 32-13 to send a roaring home crowd into celebration and extend one of the NBA’s most anticipated playoff matchups. Stephon Castle added 17 points, five rebounds and nine assists, continuing his standout postseason run, while rookie Dylan Harper scored 18 points off the bench. San Antonio held the Thunder to 36.8% shooting and forced Oklahoma City into one of its worst offensive performances of the playoffs.
The Thunder, who entered the night with a chance to clinch their second straight NBA Finals appearance, struggled to generate offense from the opening tip. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s two-time reigning MVP, was limited to 15 points on 6-of-18 shooting and went scoreless from 3-point range. Oklahoma City finished just 10-for-40 from deep.
San Antonio’s defense repeatedly crowded Gilgeous-Alexander with multiple defenders, disrupting the rhythm that had carried the Thunder throughout much of the postseason. Oklahoma City also continued dealing with health concerns surrounding key contributors. Jalen Williams returned after missing three games because of a hamstring injury but logged only limited minutes and scored one point.
Game 7 is scheduled for Saturday night in Oklahoma City, with the winner advancing to face the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals.
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