
Thunder still need more to win Western Conference finals, says SGA after series-tying victory
Although Wednesday's 122-113 victory over the San Antonio Spurs levelled the Western Conference finals at 1-1, the Oklahoma City Thunder still need further improvements if they are to win the series.
That is the view of NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had 30 points, nine assists and four rebounds for the Thunder at Paycom Center.
The reigning NBA champions had found themselves behind after a stunning performance from San Antonio talisman Victor Wembanyama in Game 1, as he put up 41 points in a 122-115 win for the Spurs.
Gilgeous-Alexander was limited to 24 points on 7-of-23 shooting in Monday's opening game, but was 12 of 24 from the field in Game 2.
And though he believes the Thunder are becoming more accustomed to facing the Spurs' mean defense, he also does not feel they have reached their top level yet.
"I guess we just got a little bit more comfortable with that type of defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said.
"Obviously it's very unique and different from literally every other defense in the league, so it takes some games.
"We're still going to have to keep getting better throughout this series if we want a chance to win.
There's no place like Loud City pic.twitter.com/ypkZpYSV0A
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) May 21, 2026
"They're a good team, a good defensive team – really good. They check all the boxes.
"We're going to have to communicate better. Tonight wasn't good enough to win the series, and we know that."
Games 3 and 4 both take place in San Antonio on Friday and Sunday, before the series returns to Oklahoma City next Tuesday.










