Victor Wembanyama returned from a calf injury to deliver a sensational performance, helping the San Antonio Spurs secure a 111-109 victory over the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Cup semifinals on Saturday night in Las Vegas. The win advances the Spurs to the NBA Cup final, where they will face the New York Knicks.

Wembanyama’s Heroics

The 20-year-old French superstar scored 15 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter, showcasing his clutch ability and leadership in a high-pressure environment. Wembanyama, who had been sidelined for 12 games, also grabbed nine rebounds during his limited 20-minute return, proving his impact on both ends of the court.

Supporting Cast Steps Up

Devin Vassell led all scorers with 23 points, while De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle contributed 22 points each. The Spurs outscored the Thunder by 21 points when Wembanyama was on the floor, highlighting his influence despite a restricted minutes load.

For Oklahoma City, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 29 points in an attempt to keep the Thunder’s 16-game winning streak alive. Jalen Williams added 17 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, while Chet Holmgren contributed 17 points. Bench players Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein combined for 21 points and 17 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Spurs’ late surge.

Dramatic Finish

The game’s final minutes were tense. Oklahoma City pulled within 106-105 on a dunk by Gilgeous-Alexander with just under 15 seconds remaining. Stephon Castle’s clutch free throws extended the Spurs’ lead to three points with 9.8 seconds left. After the Thunder cut the deficit again, Devin Vassell sank two decisive free throws with 3.3 seconds remaining, securing a 111-108 advantage and ultimately sealing the Spurs’ win.

Game Flow and Key Moments

The Thunder started strong, opening with a 14-4 lead and finishing the first quarter 31-20 ahead. The Spurs gradually clawed back in the second quarter, highlighted by an 11-0 run to trail just 49-46 at halftime. San Antonio first took the lead in the third quarter on a basket by Fox, sparking a 10-0 run capped by Vassell’s three-pointer.

In the fourth quarter, the Thunder briefly regained a 93-90 edge during an 11-3 run, but Wembanyama’s late heroics combined with clutch free throws from Vassell and Castle ensured a dramatic Spurs comeback.

Spurs Advance to NBA Cup Final

With this victory, San Antonio improves to 18-7 in NBA Cup play this season. The Spurs will face the New York Knicks, who defeated the Orlando Magic 132-120 in the other semifinal, in Tuesday night’s championship game. Wembanyama’s return and dominant performance provide a major boost to San Antonio’s hopes of claiming their first NBA Cup title.

Statistical Highlights

• San Antonio: 41.1% FG, 31% 3PT (13/42)
• Oklahoma City: 41.3% FG, 24% 3PT (9/37)
• Wembanyama: 22 points, 9 rebounds in 20 minutes
• Fox & Castle: 22 points each
• Vassell: 23 points

This semifinal win demonstrates San Antonio’s resilience, depth, and emerging star power in Wembanyama, setting up a highly anticipated NBA Cup final showdown against the Knicks.