SouthernWorldwide.com – The San Antonio Spurs have leveled the Western Conference Finals series with a commanding 103-82 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night.
With the series now tied at two games apiece, the upcoming Game 5 at Paycor Center in Oklahoma City on Tuesday night is set to be a crucial deciding factor for which team gains momentum heading into a potential Game 6.
A significant storyline in Game 4 was the stark contrast in 3-point shooting performance between the two teams. The Thunder had enjoyed a substantial advantage in Game 3, shooting 44.7% from beyond the arc and 48.1% from the field overall.
However, the Spurs significantly tightened their defensive focus, which was evident in Game 4. The Thunder struggled mightily, converting only 6 of their 33 three-point attempts, equating to a mere 18%. Their overall field goal percentage also suffered, dropping to just 33%.
San Antonio’s own shooting was not exceptional, as they made 9 of their 33 three-pointers (27%) and shot 39% from the field. Despite this, their aggressive approach paid dividends, particularly at the free-throw line where they earned 32 attempts compared to Oklahoma City’s 18.
The intensity was palpable from both squads, but it was the Spurs who most effectively capitalized on their aggressive plays, a trend that began in the opening quarter.
The Spurs established an early lead, ending the first quarter with a nine-point advantage and extending it to double digits by halftime, much to the delight of the home crowd. The third quarter saw the Thunder falter offensively, struggling to find the bottom of the net and beginning to commit turnovers, a weakness the Spurs have consistently exploited throughout the season.
San Antonio converted 25 points directly off the Thunder’s 20 turnovers and found considerable success in transition, excelling in fast-break opportunities.
At one point, the Spurs had built a commanding 25-point lead, a situation that allows a team the luxury of resting its starters in the fourth quarter with a victory assured.
Victor Wembanyama returned to his efficient offensive form, leading the Spurs with an impressive 33 points on 11-of-22 shooting. He also contributed with three made three-pointers, eight rebounds, and five assists, while adding three blocks on the defensive end.
Key contributions also came from the starting lineup, with Stephon Castle adding 13 points, three rebounds, and six assists. Devin Vassell chipped in with 13 points, six rebounds, and three assists, while De’Aaron Fox recorded 12 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists. The Spurs’ bench also showed depth, with six players scoring, including Dylan Harper, who contributed seven points and five rebounds.
For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander experienced an uncharacteristically poor shooting night, making only 6 of his 15 field goal attempts. However, he was perfect from the free-throw line, converting all seven of his attempts. He finished the game with four rebounds, seven assists, and four turnovers.
While the Thunder’s bench typically provides solid support, their contributions in this game were below their usual standards. Players like Aaron Wiggins and Jared McCain, who were instrumental in Game 3’s victory, combined for a mere 8 points, shooting a dismal 3 of 21 from the field.
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These two top seeds in the Western Conference are scheduled to clash again on Tuesday night at 8:30 p.m. ET.
