The San Antonio Spurs have clinched a spot in the 2026 NBA Finals after a decisive victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals. The Spurs, led by the young star Victor Wembanyama, defeated the Thunder 111-103 on the road, marking their first return to the Finals since 2014.

Wembanyama Shines in Victory

Victor Wembanyama, the 22-year-old standout in his third NBA season, was named the series MVP. He contributed significantly to the Spurs’ win with 22 points and seven rebounds. Wembanyama, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft, expressed his determination to continue the team’s success, stating, “We want four more [wins]. We’re not done yet.”

The Spurs showcased a balanced offensive effort with seven players scoring in double figures. Julian Champagnie added 20 points, while Stephon Castle contributed 16. The team’s efficient shooting, including 17-for-40 from beyond the arc, played a crucial role in their victory.

Game Highlights

The Spurs took an early lead, with Castle scoring nine points in the first quarter to help establish a 27-13 advantage. Despite a strong response from the Thunder, who tied the game at 49-49 in the second quarter, the Spurs regained control and entered halftime with a 56-53 lead.

In the third quarter, the Spurs extended their lead with a 16-2 run, capped by a three-pointer from Wembanyama. A strong start to the fourth quarter, including back-to-back threes from De’Aaron Fox and Wembanyama, helped the Spurs maintain their lead. A crucial block by Luke Kornet and subsequent scoring by Castle and Champagnie sealed the victory.

The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35 points, were unable to overcome the Spurs’ dominance. The defending champions were denied the chance to secure back-to-back titles, a feat last achieved by the Golden State Warriors in 2018.

Looking Ahead to the Finals

The Spurs will face the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals, a rematch of the 1999 championship series. The Spurs will have homecourt advantage, hosting Games 1 and 2 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. The series will shift to Madison Square Garden for Games 3 and 4.

This marks the Spurs’ seventh appearance in the NBA Finals, and they aim to capture their fifth title. The Knicks, entering the Finals on an 11-game winning streak, are seeking their first championship since 1973.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.