Thunder Beat Spurs in Western Conference Finals Rematch

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Thunder Defeat Spurs by 12 in Western Conference Finals Rematch

OKC got its first opportunity against the team that ended its season last year, defeating the Spurs by 12 in San Antonio.

Victor Wambayama scored 12 points after missing his first 12 field-goal attempts through three quarters. He finished 1 of 13 from the field and 10 of 12 from the free-throw line while adding six blocks. His first field goal came on a lob at the buzzer to end the third quarter.

San Antonio’s bench drew criticism, particularly the decision to use Luke Cornett as the primary backup. The concern is that the Spurs receive little production from their bench, which could become decisive if these teams meet again in the Western Conference Finals.

The Spurs’ defense also struggled despite bringing Billy Donovan onto the bench to run it. Even with an exceptional defensive player on the floor, San Antonio was unable to slow down a healthy Thunder team.

Harper left with what appeared to be a calf issue. Although he returned, he did not look the same. Castle improved in the second half, scoring 11 points in the third quarter and making all three of his three-point attempts during the period. OKC allowed him to shoot throughout the night, and those shots began falling in the second half.