Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a strong performance with 30 points and nine assists, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 122-113 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals on Wednesday. The win levels the series at 1-1 as the action shifts to San Antonio for Game 3 on Friday.
After a difficult shooting night in Game 1, where he went 7-of-23 from the field, the reigning two-time MVP found his rhythm in Game 2, connecting on 12 of 24 shots. His improved efficiency helped the Thunder overcome a determined Spurs squad.
Victor Wembanyama posted 21 points and 17 rebounds for San Antonio, following his 41-point, 24-rebound effort in Game 1. Stephon Castle led all Spurs scorers with 25 points but committed nine turnovers.
The game turned in the fourth quarter when Gilgeous-Alexander returned from a brief rest with Oklahoma City holding a slim two-point lead. The Thunder promptly unleashed an 11-0 run, fueled by back-to-back 3-pointers from Cason Wallace and Jared McCain, both assisted by Isaiah Hartenstein. Hartenstein, who played only 12 minutes in Game 1, logged 27 minutes this time, contributing 10 points and 13 rebounds despite early foul trouble.
San Antonio cut the deficit to five with 1:25 remaining, but a missed 3-pointer by Devin Vassell and Castle's ninth turnover dashed their comeback hopes. Gilgeous-Alexander then nailed a step-back jumper, and Alex Caruso sealed the win with a driving layup. Oklahoma City capitalized on San Antonio's 21 turnovers, scoring 27 points off them.
Injuries marred the contest for both sides. Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell exited late in the game with a right leg injury, while Jalen Williams, who had 26 points in Game 1, left in the first quarter due to left hamstring tightness and did not return. The Spurs were already missing point guard De'Aaron Fox (sore right ankle) and lost rookie Dylan Harper in the third quarter to a right leg injury. Caruso added 17 points off the bench for Oklahoma City.