Victor Wembanyama marked his return from injury in emphatic fashion as the San Antonio Spurs edged past the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-109 to book a place in the NBA Cup final in Las Vegas.
The French star, back after missing 12 games with a left calf issue, made an immediate impact despite restricted minutes. Playing just 21 minutes, the 21-year-old scored 22 points, pulled down nine rebounds and added two blocks as the Spurs handed the reigning NBA champions only their second defeat of the season.
Wembanyama said he was determined to make his time on court count, knowing his workload would be managed. He described the win as significant, given Oklahoma City’s dominant form this season. Devin Vassell led San Antonio in scoring with 23 points, while the Spurs showed composure in the closing moments to seal a dramatic victory.
The defeat brought an end to the Thunder’s 16-game winning streak. Oklahoma City had made a historic start to the campaign, going 24-1 through their first 25 games, a mark previously matched only by the Golden State Warriors in 2015-16. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was once again influential, finishing with a game-high 29 points in a losing cause.
The NBA Cup, the league’s in-season tournament, has added extra edge to the regular calendar, with all games except the final also counting towards league standings.
San Antonio will now face the New York Knicks in the final after they beat the Orlando Magic 132-120. Jalen Brunson starred for New York with a season-high 40 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 29 as the Knicks powered into the championship game.
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