UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, the San Antonio Spurs stunned the Oklahoma City Thunder with a nail-biting 111-109 victory on November 25, 2023, propelling them into the NBA Cup final. The Spurs will face the New York Knicks this Tuesday night, marking a significant turn in the tournament.
Victor Wembanyama, returning from a 12-game absence due to a strained left calf, delivered a stellar performance with 22 points and 9 rebounds. His presence not only energized the team but also electrified the crowd in Las Vegas. Wembanyama’s impact was palpable, as fans erupted in “M-V-P” chants, celebrating his return.
The Thunder entered this game with a formidable 16-game winning streak and a record of 24-2—the second-best start in NBA history, just behind Golden State’s 25-1 in the 2015-16 season. This defeat marks only their second loss this season, and it comes after a disappointing loss in last year’s final against Milwaukee.
Wembanyama’s return was strategic; he was placed on a minutes restriction but still managed a remarkable plus-21 rating in just 21 minutes of play. As the game progressed, the Spurs rallied, ending the first half with a crucial 13-point run to shift momentum.
The Spurs capitalized on their momentum with a 10-point run in the third quarter, taking a 62-56 lead and setting the stage for a tense fourth quarter. Teammate Devin Vassell also shined, contributing 23 points, while De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle each added 22 points to the scoreboard.
“We knew we had to step up, especially after last season’s final,” Wembanyama stated after the game. “This team has heart, and we showed it tonight.”
On the Thunder’s side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 29 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Spurs’ surge. Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams contributed 17 points each, but the team’s inability to maintain their winning streak leaves them looking for answers.
The stakes are high as the Spurs prepare for the final against the Knicks. Fans will be eagerly anticipating how Wembanyama’s full return will influence the championship battle. The NBA Cup final is set to take place on Tuesday night, and all eyes will be on the Spurs as they aim for victory.
This unexpected turn of events underscores the unpredictable nature of the NBA Cup, and the Spurs’ resilience serves as a testament to their determination. Stay tuned for more updates as the final approaches, and be ready for what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the tournament.
