Defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder bounced back strongly in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 122-113 on Wednesday night to level the series at 1-1.
After struggling in the series opener, league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rediscovered his rhythm, finishing with 30 points and nine assists while leading Oklahoma City’s response. The Thunder also received major contributions from their bench, with Alex Caruso scoring 17 points and reserves Jared McCain and Cason Wallace adding 12 each.
NBA: Oklahoma City Thunder 122-113 San Antonio Spurs
“The guys brought it tonight,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Knowing what it would have meant if we lost this one, we brought the energy from the jump.”
Oklahoma City controlled large stretches of the game with aggressive defence
and relentless pressure, forcing turnovers that turned into easy points. By halftime, the Thunder had built an 11-point advantage, although the Spurs rallied in the third quarter to briefly erase the deficit.
San Antonio Spurs remained competitive despite missing injured guard De’Aaron Fox for a second straight game. Rookie Stephon Castle impressed with 25 points, while Victor Wembanyama delivered another all-around performance with 21 points, 17 rebounds, six assists and four blocks.
“The guys were ready to play, (we) didn’t get discouraged by the runs they made,” said Gilgeous-Alexander after the game. “Obviously, they’re a good team, they are gonna make runs.”
The Thunder regained control with an 11-0 surge in the fourth quarter before Gilgeous-Alexander sealed the result late with a step-back jumper. Oklahoma City also received a valuable contribution from Isaiah Hartenstein, who responded after limited minutes in Game 1 with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
“I thought we all played better,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “I had a quiet confidence about that.”
The physical contest came at a cost for both sides. Thunder guard Jalen Williams exited with hamstring tightness, while Spurs starter Dylan Harper suffered a right leg injury.
“We’ve got to help our ballhandlers more and take care of the ball,” Wembanyama said.
The series now shifts to San Antonio for Games 3 and 4.
(With inputs from Agencies)
