Spurs Shock Thunder 111-109; Wembanyama Sparks NBA Cup Final Surge

UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the San Antonio Spurs triumphed over the Oklahoma City Thunder with a nail-biting score of 111-109 on Saturday night, propelling them into the NBA Cup final. This pivotal victory marks just the Thunder’s second loss of the season, who had previously enjoyed a remarkable 16-game winning streak.

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama made a sensational return from a 12-game absence, scoring 22 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. His performance electrified the Las Vegas crowd and provided the Spurs with the much-needed momentum as they prepare to face the New York Knicks in the final on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.

The Thunder’s last defeat came on November 5 against Portland, and they now hold a record of 24-2. This season, they trail only the historic start of the Golden State Warriors in 2015-16, who began with a 25-1 record. Despite the loss, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 29 points, but it wasn’t enough to stave off the Spurs’ surge.

Wembanyama’s return was highly anticipated, and he did not disappoint. The crowd erupted when he shed his sweatpants before the second quarter, showcasing his readiness to dominate. He left the game with a plus-21 rating in just 21 minutes of play, underscoring his immediate impact on the court.

The Spurs rallied late in the first half, closing out with a 13-point run that shifted the momentum in their favor. They continued to push in the third quarter, executing a 10-point run to gain a 62-56 lead, setting the stage for a tense fourth quarter.

Teammate Devin Vassell also shined, contributing 23 points alongside Wembanyama’s efforts. The Spurs showcased their depth with strong performances from De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, each adding 22 points to the scoreboard.

“The crowd was incredible, and we fed off their energy,” Wembanyama said post-game, reflecting on the atmosphere in Las Vegas.

As the Spurs prepare for their showdown with the Knicks, fans are buzzing with excitement. This NBA Cup final promises to deliver intense action as the Spurs aim for victory and redemption after last year’s loss to Milwaukee in the finals. Don’t miss it!