Oklahoma City Thunder stormed to a crucial victory over the San Antonio Spurs, taking a 2-1 series lead in the first-round playoff matchup. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 31 points and 8 assists, while four bench players scored in double figures to secure the road win.
The Thunder's depth proved decisive, with reserves contributing 48 points total. Isaiah Joe knocked down four three-pointers, and Kenrich Williams added 12 points and 7 rebounds. The Spurs fought back in the third quarter, cutting the lead to five, but Oklahoma City's defense stiffened down the stretch.
“Our bench unit came in with incredible energy,” said Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. “They stretched the floor and gave us the boost we needed.”
The defending champions now hold the advantage, with Game 4 set for Saturday in San Antonio.