SHAI Gilgeous-Alexander rediscovered his rhythm and powered Oklahoma City Thunder to a 122-113 victory over San Antonio Spurs in Game 2 of NBA Western Conference Finals on Wednesday night (Thursday in the Philippines) in Oklahoma City.
After struggling in the series opener, the reigning NBA MVP responded with 30 points as the Thunder leaned on their depth and defensive pressure to bounce back and tie the best-of-seven series at 1-1.
“The guys brought it tonight. Knowing what it would have meant if we lost this one, we brought the energy from the jump,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
Alex Caruso sparked the second unit with 17 points, while Jared McCain and Cason Wallace chipped in 12 apiece. Chet Holmgren added 13 points, and Isaiah Hartenstein delivered 10 points and 13 rebounds.
Oklahoma City’s bench played a major role in the win, outscoring San Antonio’s reserves 57-25. The Thunder also capitalized on turnovers, finishing with a commanding 27-10 advantage in points off miscues.
San Antonio stayed within striking distance behind another strong performance from Victor Wembanyama, who posted 21 points, 17 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks. Stephon Castle scored 25 points, while Devin Vassell added 22.
The Spurs cut the deficit to 99-97 after Harrison Barnes drilled a corner three-pointer with 9:06 remaining in the fourth quarter. But Oklahoma City quickly regained control with an 11-0 run highlighted by a banked three from McCain that pushed the lead back to double digits.
San Antonio made one final push when Wembanyama scored inside to trim the gap to 118-113 with 1:25 left, but Gilgeous-Alexander answered with a late basket to seal the victory.
The game also featured injury concerns for both teams as Thunder guard Jalen Williams exited in the first half after experiencing renewed tightness in his left hamstring, while Spurs were without De’Aaron Fox (ankle soreness) and Dylan Harper (right leg injury).
Oklahoma City improved to 14-5 following losses this season and earned only its second win over San Antonio in seven meetings./PN
