NBA playoffs news: San Antonio Spurs end OKC Thunder reign after decisive WCF Game 7 win
The San Antonio Spurs dethroned the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals 111-103 on Sunday, May 31.
Stars Victor Wembanyama and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander both showed up for their respective teams, but the Spurs’ supporting cast stood out above all else.
Conversely, the OKC Thunder’s role players failed to assist Gilgeous-Alexander in key moments, with most of them registering tame performances in the close-out game.
Wembanyama a relentless force
Wembanyama impressed all series, scoring 22 points and collecting seven boards to help his team win the West in Game 7 - but his commanding presence and influence on his team-mates was the Spurs’ most noteworthy weapon.
"I can go through hurdles that I didn't know those hurdles could get so high,” the French superstar said post-game.
“It's just pushing through, I found resources inside of me - relentlessness.
"I already knew that, but doing it at this level, I mean, this is the best basketball on the planet that's being played right now... and the crazy thing is, maybe I'm crazy, but I want to do that 15-20 more times.
“Let's hope it doesn't become an addiction... maybe it already is,” he added.
Holmgren failure
OKC Thunder centre Chet Holmgren struggled in many of his offensive and defensive responsibilities in the crunch game.
Whether it be taking on his counterpart Wembanyama or defending him, Holmgren folded under the weight of a Game 7.
Holmgren took only two shots for a dismal four points.
NBA finals awaits
In a 1999 revived rematch, the San Antonio Spurs will host the Knicks in Game 1 of the NBA finals on Thursday, June 4 to crown the new kings of the National Basketball Association.
