Spurs’ hot start fades as Thunder rally for Game 3 win, series lead

Key Points:

• The San Antonio Spurs started Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals with a strong 19-4 lead but then went cold offensively, allowing the Oklahoma City Thunder to rally and win 123-108, retaking home court advantage and a 2-1 series lead.
• Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 26 points but was limited mostly outside the paint, while Devin Vassell contributed 20 points, seven rebounds, and four steals; however, the Spurs' bench was heavily outscored 76-23 by Oklahoma City's second unit, a key factor in the loss.
• Oklahoma City's bench dominance, led by Jared McCain's 24 points and Jaylin Williams' 18, has been a consistent issue for San Antonio, with the Thunder's bench outscoring the Spurs' 183-64 through three games.
• Injuries affected the Spurs, with De’Aaron Fox re-injuring his ankle but returning to score 15 points, and Dylan Harper struggling due to an adductor injury, contributing to the team's offensive struggles and turnover issues.
• Facing a 2-1 series deficit and with Game 4 imminent, the Spurs acknowledge the need for improvement and adjustments to counter the Thunder’s depth and momentum, as expressed by coach Mitch Johnson and star Victor Wembanyama.