Thunder vs Spurs: San Antonio Stuns Thunder with Three Consecutive Victories

Spurs Emerge as Serious Contenders in Western Conference

The rivalry between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs has intensified dramatically this December, with the Spurs defeating the Thunder for their third win over the defending NBA champions in the past two weeks. This remarkable run has signalled a significant shift in the Western Conference power dynamics and established San Antonio as a force to be reckoned with this season.

Christmas Day Victory Extends Winning Streak

De’Aaron Fox scored 29 points, and the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-102 on Thursday in a Christmas Day showdown. Victor Wembanyama had 19 points and 11 rebounds and Stephon Castle had 19 points and seven assists for the Spurs, whilst San Antonio shot 53.6% from the field and held the Thunder to 38.9% shooting. The victory marked San Antonio’s eighth straight win and Oklahoma City’s second home loss of the season.

Recent History Shows Spurs Dominance

The Christmas Day triumph followed a 130-110 victory on Tuesday night, winning their seventh straight game and beating the Thunder for the second time in 11 days. In that match, Keldon Johnson had 25 points and Stephon Castle added 24. The series began with Victor Wembanyama’s return from a 12-game absence with 22 points and nine rebounds in a 111-109 victory in the NBA Cup semifinal.

Implications for the Western Conference Race

The Thunder entered the day at the top of the Western Conference standings, with the Spurs in second. However, OKC suffered its largest loss of the season and its first 20-point defeat in seven months during their recent encounter. San Antonio has won 14 of 17 to move into second place in the Western Conference, establishing themselves as legitimate championship contenders. As these teams prepare for their next meeting on 13 January in Oklahoma City, the Thunder will be determined to halt San Antonio’s momentum and reassert their dominance.