UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-109 on November 25, 2023, propelling the Spurs into the NBA Cup final. This victory not only marked the Thunder’s second loss of the season but also ended their impressive 16-game winning streak.
Victor Wembanyama made a triumphant return after a 12-game absence due to a strained left calf, scoring 22 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. His performance electrified the crowd in Las Vegas, where fans erupted in cheers as he entered the game. The Spurs are set to face the New York Knicks in the finals on Tuesday night.
This defeat is particularly significant for the Thunder, who now hold a record of 24-2, the second-best start in franchise history, just behind the Golden State Warriors’ 25-1 record from the 2015-16 season. The loss also adds to Oklahoma City’s recent struggles in Las Vegas, following last year’s final loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Wembanyama’s impact was immediate; he posted a plus-21 rating in just 21 minutes of play. Teammate Devin Vassell also shined, contributing 23 points, while De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle added 22 points each. The Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led his team with 29 points, while Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams chipped in with 17 points apiece.
The game was tightly contested, with the Spurs trailing at halftime. However, they finished the first half with an explosive 13-point run that shifted momentum. In the third quarter, San Antonio pushed ahead with a 10-point run, setting the stage for a nerve-wracking fourth period.
As the Spurs prepare for the finals, fans are buzzing with excitement following Wembanyama’s stellar return. The stakes are high as the Spurs aim for their first championship title. The NBA Cup final against the Knicks promises to be a thrilling showdown.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Spurs continue their remarkable journey in this year’s NBA Cup.
