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May 31, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Spurs Upset Thunder in Game 7 to Reach NBA Finals

AI Summary
The San Antonio Spurs rallied in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals, defeating the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder 111‑103. A late foul on Victor Wembanyama and a clutch block by Luke Kornet shifted momentum, propelling the Spurs into the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks.

Game 7 Recap: Spurs Edge Thunder 111‑103

The Western Conference finals culminated in a dramatic Game 7 where the San Antonio Spurs survived a late foul on Victor Wembanyama and a decisive block by Luke Kornet to clinch a 111‑103 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The win sends the Spurs to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2024.

Key Moments That Shifted Momentum

  • Wembanyama’s fifth foul in the fourth quarter forced him to sit, removing the Spurs’ primary interior presence.
  • Luke Kornet’s chase‑down block on Isaiah Hartenstein sparked a quick Spurs run, extending the lead to eight points.
  • Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander scored 35 of the Thunder’s 31 points from starters, but the bench contributed only 14 fourth‑quarter points.
  • The Spurs’ bench outscored the Thunder’s starters for most of the series, a trend that proved decisive in Game 7.

Statistical Snapshot of the Deciding Game

  • Final Score: Spurs 111, Thunder 103
  • Victor Wembanyama: 12 points, 7 rebounds, fouled out in the fourth quarter.
  • Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander: 35 points (team‑high), 5 assists.
  • Luke Kornet: 8 points, 4 rebounds, 1 block (crucial chase‑down).
  • Spurs Bench: 38 points combined, highlighted by Keldon Johnson (two threes) and Julian Champagnie (6‑of‑10 shooting).
  • Thunder Bench: 14 fourth‑quarter points, limited impact overall.

What the Upset Means for the NBA Landscape

The Thunder’s early‑season dominance (24‑1 start) made them favorites, but the series exposed a reliance on Gilgeous‑Alexander and a bench that could be neutralized when Wembanyama rested. The Spurs demonstrated depth and resilience, reinforcing the notion that playoff success hinges on contributions beyond star players. Fan sentiment toward the Thunder’s “unpopular” style of drawing fouls may intensify, while the Spurs’ narrative shifts from underdog to legitimate championship contender.

Looking Ahead: Spurs vs Knicks in the Finals

Next up, the Spurs will face a rested New York Knicks team that entered the playoffs on an 11‑game winning streak. The Knicks’ balanced roster and recent momentum pose a fresh challenge, but the Spurs’ experience in Game 7 and their bench firepower give them a credible shot at the title. Meanwhile, the Thunder are expected to regroup, address depth concerns, and return stronger next season.