Gilgeous-Alexander’s 30-Points Lifts Thunder Past Spurs

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a commanding performance on his home floor, pouring in a game-high 30 points to power the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 122-113 victory over the San Antonio Spurs.

The win levels the Western Conference finals at one game apiece, ensuring the reigning NBA champions avoid a daunting 2-0 hole.

The two-time reigning Most Valuable Player was at his creative best, also dishing out nine assists while controlling the tempo against a Spurs team that had stolen home-court advantage in the series opener.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to attack the rim and draw fouls kept the San Antonio defense off balance all night.

San Antonio’s phenom Victor Wembanyama, who exploded for 41 points in Game 1, was held to just 21 in the rematch.

The Thunder threw multiple defenders and frequent double-teams at the 7-foot-4 star, forcing him into difficult looks and limiting his impact around the basket.

That energy was evident from the opening tip. The first quarter ended deadlocked at 31, but Oklahoma City seized control in the second period, riding a 12-2 run to build an 11-point halftime cushion.

The Spurs refused to fade, however, erasing the deficit midway through the third quarter and clawing to within two points in the final frame. But each time San Antonio threatened, the Thunder answered—whether through Gilgeous-Alexander’s step-back jumpers, timely triples from role players, or stops on the defensive end.

The series now shifts to San Antonio for Games 3 and 4, scheduled for Friday and Sunday. The Thunder will look to steal a victory on enemy territory and reclaim the home-court advantage they surrendered in the opener.