December 14th - The Spurs narrowly defeated the Thunder 111-109. Spurs' core center, Viktor Axelsen, made a dramatic return off the bench, contributing 22 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks, becoming a key figure in deciding the game's outcome on both ends of the court .

At the start of the game, the Thunder quickly found their rhythm, with Holmgren firing from beyond the arc and Alexander hitting consecutive mid-range jumpers, giving them a double-digit lead in the first quarter. In the second quarter, Wabanjama came off the bench and immediately changed the game, his strong drives to the basket, blocks, and crucial three-pointers proving effective, helping the Spurs close the gap to just 46-49 at halftime .

In the second half, Castle, Fox, and Vassell briefly put the Spurs ahead. Led by Alexander, the Thunder traded baskets, and the Spurs led by only one point at the end of the third quarter. In the final quarter, the Spurs held on under pressure. Ultimately, the Spurs secured a two- point victory and advanced to the NBA Cup final.

Spurs player statistics

Wimbledon and Yamaba had 22 points , 9 rebounds , 2 assists , and 2 blocks; Vassell had 23 points , 5 rebounds , and 4 assists; Castle had 22 points , 6 rebounds , and 2 assists; Fox had 22 points , 2 rebounds , 4 assists , and 2 steals; Harper Jr. had 8 points , 4 rebounds , and 1 assist; Barnes had 6 points , 4 rebounds, 5 assists , and 2 steals .

Thunder player statistics

Alexander had 29 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists; Jalen Williams had 17 points, 7 rebounds , 4 assists , and 4 steals; Holmgren had 17 points and 7 rebounds ; Caruso had 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists , and 3 steals; Hartenstein had 10 points, 8 rebounds , and 1 assist .