OKLAHOMA CITY -- The MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a stellar performance, scoring 30 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 122-113 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals. This win evened the series at 1-1.
Thunder's Bench Dominates
Alex Caruso contributed 17 points off the bench, while Chet Holmgren scored 13. Jared McCain and Cason Wallace each added 12 points. The Thunder's bench outscored the Spurs' by a significant margin, 57-25, and the team also had a 27-10 edge in points off turnovers.
Spurs Struggle but Fight Back
The Spurs were led by Stephon Castle with 25 points, while Devin Vassell added 22 and Victor Wembanyama had a double-double with 21 points and 17 rebounds, along with six assists and four blocks. Despite trailing by 11 at halftime, the Spurs managed to narrow the gap to 99-97 in the fourth quarter. However, an 11-0 run by the Thunder secured their victory.
Game 3 is set for Friday in San Antonio. The Thunder's resilience, particularly off the bench, has been a key factor in their success this series.
"The guys brought it tonight. Knowing what it would have meant if we lost this one, we brought the energy from the jump," said Gilgeous-Alexander.
The Spurs will need to regroup and find a way to contain the Thunder's bench to have a chance in Game 3.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This series is heating up! With Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way, the Thunder are making the Spurs work for every point. Game 3 in San Antonio will be electric! Who do you think will come out on top?