Wembanyama’s 41-24 double-double silences Thunder in West finals: ‘The best player in the world’
The Guardian • • sports
Key Points:
- Victor Wembanyama led the San Antonio Spurs with 41 points and 24 rebounds, becoming the youngest player to record at least 40 points and 20 rebounds in a playoff game, as the Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 122-115 in double overtime to open the Western Conference finals.
- Dylan Harper contributed 24 points and set a team playoff record with seven steals, while Alex Caruso scored 31 points off the bench for the Thunder, whose nine-game playoff winning streak was snapped.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, despite winning his second consecutive MVP award, struggled with his shooting, finishing 7 for 23, and acknowledged he needed to perform better.
- The game marked the sixth NBA playoff Game 1 to go into double overtime and showcased strong mental toughness from both teams, with Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praising the effort.
- Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Wednesday in Oklahoma City.