Victor Wembanyama scores 41 as San Antonio Spurs stun Oklahoma City Thunder
Victor Wembanyama produced a masterful 41-point, 24-rebound performance as the San Antonio Spurs beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 122-115 in double-overtime to win Game One of the Western Conference finals.
The French center sealed the victory with a pair of decisive dunks in the final minute.
One of those emphatic finishes resulted in a three-point play, ensuring the visitors stole crucial home-court advantage on Monday night.
It was a frustrating evening for the hosts, who saw their nine-game playoff winning streak abruptly ended.
MVP Gilgeous-Alexander struggles as Thunder streak ends
The defeat spoiled a celebratory occasion for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was presented with his second consecutive Most Valuable Player trophy before tip-off.
The Thunder guard struggled to find his rhythm, managing just 24 points on seven-of-23 shooting alongside 12 assists.
He endured his worst offensive first half in nearly three years, scoring only four points from a single field goal.
Conversely, Wembanyama dominated the opening periods by consistently dunking over multiple defenders to establish a 51-44 half-time lead.
Supporting cast steps up in historic marathon
Dylan Harper provided vital support for San Antonio with 24 points and a franchise playoff-record seven steals.
The visitors were forced to rely on their depth after De’Aaron Fox was sidelined with ankle stiffness.
Alex Caruso kept Oklahoma City in the contest with 31 points off the bench, marking the second-highest scoring tally of his career.
Jalen Williams also impressed on his return from a six-game absence with a hamstring strain, contributing 26 points for the hosts.
Double-overtime drama sets stage for Game Two
The Spurs squandered a 10-point advantage with nine minutes remaining in regulation, leading to a frantic final stretch.
Chet Holmgren blocked an off-balance attempt by Wembanyama on the final play of normal time to force the additional periods.
This epic encounter became only the sixth series opener in NBA playoff history to require double overtime.
San Antonio have now defeated Oklahoma City in five of their six meetings this season, setting a fascinating tone ahead of Game Two on Wednesday.