LAS VEGAS — When Victor Wembaneyama finally returned to the Spurs’ bench after playing just over three minutes in his first game in a month, what seemed like an impossible matchup against a reigning champion suddenly turned within reach.
The first quarter of Saturday night’s semifinal reminded fans of the dominance the 24-1 Oklahoma City Thunder had over months, but the second quarter showcased Wembaneyama’s fierce resistance. Coming off the bench for the first time, his impact was immediate and transformative. The usually smooth half-court play of OKC was disrupted as Wembaneyama altered shots, grabbed rebounds, and made defensive blocks that rattled their offense. His presence shrank an 11-point deficit to just four and cut a 16-point lead to three in minutes. By halftime, Wembaneyama was leading the league with a +20 plus-minus, despite limited minutes.
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson praised his effort, noting how Wembaneyama influenced the game strongly without needing to score, showing aggression and control. As the game’s final minutes approached at T-Mobile Arena, the Spurs, defying expectations, stood united and focused. Wembaneyama’s return after missing 12 games due to a calf strain brought renewed belief and confidence, while teammates De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Devin Vassell contributed 67 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists to shoulder the load. Wembaneyama sealed the win calmly in the fourth quarter, finishing with 22 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and a steal in 21 minutes, ending Oklahoma City’s 16-game winning streak.
“This is unbelievable,” said Wembaneyama. “For the past 12 games, I encouraged the guys to get better and do great things. I’m thrilled to be part of this growing, beautiful team that plays pure basketball.”
On this night, the Thunder appeared less like the unstoppable force and more like a team unsettled by Wembaneyama’s commanding influence. The Spurs, finally with all key players healthy, showed what they can achieve together on the big stage—a warning to the rest of the NBA. Coach Johnson’s strategic navigation highlighted the Spurs’ strong roster construction, but the team’s offensive struggles and defensive ranking remain concerns.
With Wembaneyama back in action, San Antonio’s defense could be reshaped. The Spurs allowed just 106.5 points per 100 possessions during his minutes, second only to the Thunder, and notably reduced opponents’ shot attempts and efficiency near the rim and free-throw line. This defensive shift could prove pivotal in the tough Western Conference.
“We are on the right track,” Wembaneyama said. “For the first time, we have more wins than losses, and it feels great. We’re exactly where we want to be.”
Currently holding a 18-7 record and sitting fourth in the standings, the Spurs trail the second-place Denver Nuggets by just half a game. Despite one of the league’s toughest remaining schedules, the team’s youthful energy and growing belief are contagious. With offensive stars Fox, Vassell, and Castle thriving and a league-leading pace rating, the Spurs show they are more than just Wembaneyama—a cohesive, confident unit.
Coach Johnson acknowledged Wembaneyama’s central role but emphasized the team effort: “Victor is the face of the series and the biggest piece, but he’s not solving the puzzle alone. This is a group effort.” Wembaneyama himself sees the challenge ahead: “This OKC team is number one in the league and far ahead. We have to embrace the little things that lead to wins—this is the next step.”
—
Fan Take: This moment signals the rise of a new Spurs era centered around Victor Wembaneyama, whose impact on both ends of the floor is game-changing. For basketball fans, it’s thrilling to see a fresh young superstar redefine the sport’s future while elevating a traditionally historic franchise back into championship contention.
