Despite the hype surrounding the rookie showdown between San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren of Oklahoma City, the Thunder maintained their focus on the game, securing a 140-114 win over the Spurs during Wednesday’s NBA action.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for Oklahoma City with 32 points and 10 assists, helping to counter Wembanyama’s impressive 24 points and 12 rebounds. Holmgren also contributed significantly with 17 points and nine rebounds, as the Thunder claimed their fourth consecutive victory, keeping them at the top of the Western Conference standings alongside the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 31-13 record.
“All credit to Vic,” Holmgren said. “Obviously, a great player, very, very talented, even at an early stage in his career. But I can’t let that matchup take away from what the job was tonight and that was trying to win a basketball game. Thunder versus Spurs.”
Holmgren and Wembanyama, leading contenders for the Rookie of the Year title, displayed their unique talents on the court. Wembanyama, who recently won his second straight Rookie of the Month award, was efficient from the field but struggled from the 3-point line, going 0 for 3. His performance included four blocks, four assists, and a steal.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich praised Wembanyama’s consistent effort and competitive spirit, stating that his performance is always focused on playing hard and learning rather than on any individual matchup.
“The way he played tonight is the way he tries to play every night,” Gregg Popovich said. “It’s not because of any one individual. He plays hard. He competes. He’s learning every day.”
The game saw several standout moments between the two rookies. Wembanyama’s dominance was on display with a spin move around Holmgren for a layup and a one-handed dunk that led to a glare at Holmgren. Meanwhile, Holmgren responded with a key 3-pointer that extended Oklahoma City’s lead significantly.
“My first goal is always to win,” Wembanyama said. “In a game like this, I don’t think about that, especially in a loss.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Despite the individual battles, it was Oklahoma City’s overall team performance that secured the win. Gilgeous-Alexander noted the team’s adjustment to San Antonio’s defensive tactics, especially regarding Wembanyama’s shot-blocking attempts, which allowed the Thunder to capitalize on layups later in the game.
“Early in the game, their weak side was collapsing on like every drive,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Just randomly, it wasn’t like a rotation, especially Victor. He would just come in on every drive and try to block it. I think we got caught a couple of times early in the game and then once we started not taking the bait and moving it, they were spread out and we were able to get layups later in the game.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The Thunder’s efficient shooting, with 56% from the field and 18 for 40 on 3-pointers, was a key factor in their victory. Six players scored in double figures, including Aaron Wiggins with 22 points.
Popovich acknowledged the impact of Oklahoma City’s 3-point shooting and the Spurs’ turnovers, which contributed significantly to the loss.
“We played well in the first half, but the 3-point shots really hurt us,” Popovich said. “And they scored 30 points off our turnovers. If you’re not going to shoot 3s, you can’t double down by giving up 30 points off turnovers or you’re going to get your (butt) kicked like tonight.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Devin Vassell scored 21 points for the Spurs, and second-year guard Blake Wesley, starting in place of the injured Tre Jones, added 12 points and six assists. Wembanyama felt Jones’ absence, particularly in terms of team organization.
“We felt (Jones’ absence) with the lack sometimes of organization,” Wembanyama said. “His expertise is precious. I could feel especially in the second half, third quarter that we needed him, but it happens in a season.”
Looking ahead, the Thunder are set to face the New Orleans Pelicans, while the Spurs will host the Portland Trail Blazers, both games scheduled for Friday night.
