The Oklahoma City Thunder evened their Western Conference Finals series against the San Antonio Spurs to 1-1 with a commanding 122-113 victory on their home court. After a disappointing first game, Thunder star and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dominated with 30 points, leading the team in his signature rhythm. The experienced Aleksej Kuža contributed 17 points as a key factor on the bench.

Key Contributions and Reserves

The Thunder secured a crucial advantage due to their exceptional bench performance (57-25) and points off the Spurs' turnovers (27-10). Alongside Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren scored 13 points, while young talents Josh Giddey and Justin Alford each added 12 points. Viktor Loncar, the Spurs' wonder player, continued his sci-fi-like performance with 21 points, 17 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks, but it was not enough to break Oklahoma's defense. The Spurs' most effective player was Stefon Curry with 25 points, and Devin Vassell added 22.

Injuries and Turning Points

The game was marred by injuries that could shape the series. The Thunder lost Jalen Williams due to a recurrence of his back injury, while the Spurs, already without their star De’Aaron Fox, lost his replacement, Dylan Harper, due to a leg injury. The Spurs managed to close the gap to just two points (99-97) in the final quarter, but a 11-0 run by the Thunder sealed the game. The series now moves to Texas, with the third game set for Friday night in San Antonio.