The San Antonio Spurs have clinched their spot in the 2026 NBA Finals after a hard-fought 111-103 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals. This marks the Spurs’ first trip to the NBA Finals since 2014.
Victor Wembanyama led the charge for San Antonio, scoring 22 points, with a well-rounded performance from the entire team featuring seven players who scored in double figures. The Spurs will now prepare to face an Eastern Conference rival in the championship series.
In front of a passionate crowd at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, the Spurs demonstrated resilience and skill, taking control of the game early and maintaining their lead throughout. San Antonio shot an impressive 57% in the first quarter to establish a 32-25 advantage, and despite a strong effort from Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who netted 19 points in the first half, the Spurs headed into halftime with a slim 56-53 lead.
The game intensified in the third quarter, with Gilgeous-Alexander continuing his offensive onslaught and finishing the period with 31 points. However, San Antonio’s multifaceted offense kept them afloat, with contributions from Julian Champagnie, who excelled from three-point range, Wembanyama dominating the paint, and second-year point guard Stephon Castle making impactful plays.
Entering the fourth quarter with a narrow 80-77 lead, San Antonio faced critical moments that would define their season. The Thunder made multiple attempts to close the gap, coming within six points late in the game. Yet, the Spurs’ defense rose to the occasion. Champagnie delivered a crucial block on a Gilgeous-Alexander three-point attempt, and Castle secured a vital offensive rebound, converting it into a basket that extended the lead back to eight with under a minute remaining.
Despite a late layup from Cason Wallace, Oklahoma City could not regain momentum, with missed three-point attempts from Wallace and Alex Caruso effectively sealing the game for San Antonio. With just 4.1 seconds left, Devin Vassell punctuated the victory with a dunk, signaling a monumental achievement for the Spurs.
Wembanyama’s performance led the Spurs with 22 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks. Champagnie contributed 20 points, including six three-pointers, while Castle added 16 points and six assists. Other significant contributions came from Fox with 15 points, Vassell with 11, and bench player Dylan Harper who scored 12. This balanced offensive approach countered a strong outing from Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished the night with 31 points and five assists.
Looking ahead, the Spurs are now just four wins away from capturing their next NBA championship, having proven their mettle by winning the decisive Game 7 on the road against a formidable Thunder team that boasted the league’s best regular-season record.
