Thunder vs. Spurs: Game 1 Sets the Tone in a Rivalry Renewed

A double‑overtime classic in Oklahoma City kicks off a high‑stakes Western Conference Finals

Game 1 of the 2026 Western Conference Finals delivered a thrilling double‑overtime victory for the San Antonio Spurs over the defending‑champion Thunder. Victor Wembanyama’s 41‑point, 24‑rebound masterpiece and Dylan Harper’s breakout performance highlight a series that promises to define the NBA’s next era.

1. A Show‑Stopping Opener

On May 18 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, the San Antonio Spurs stunned the No. 1–seeded defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in double overtime, 122‑115, to take a 1‑0 lead in the Western Conference Finals . The game was an instant classic, featuring dramatic momentum swings and electrifying individual performances.

2. Wembanyama Takes Over

Victor Wembanyama delivered a generational performance with 41 points and 24 rebounds, shooting 14‑of‑25 from the field (.560) and 12‑of‑13 from the line (.923) over nearly 49 minutes . His dominance in the paint included a back‑to‑the‑basket alley‑oop dunk with 22 seconds remaining, and a key late block on Jalen Williams to force overtime .