The Western Conference finals between the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder are tied 2-2 after San Antonio’s 103-82 victory in Game 4 on Sunday.
Victor Wembanyama scored 33 points in the latest win for the Spurs, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder now return home for Game 5 on Tuesday night. The series winner will move within one victory of reaching the NBA Finals.
Series Turns Into Tactical Battle
Players and coaches from both teams described the series as a chess match because of the tactical adjustments made after each game.
Wembanyama said playoff series become increasingly strategic as opponents learn each other’s tendencies through multiple games. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson and Thunder coach Mark Daigneault have both emphasized preparation and in-game adjustments throughout the conference finals.
San Antonio opened the series with a double-overtime victory in Game 1 before Oklahoma City responded with wins in Games 2 and 3. The Spurs answered in Game 4 to level the matchup again.
Wembanyama Continues Strong Playoff Run
Wembanyama has remained the focal point of San Antonio’s postseason campaign.
The Spurs forward delivered 41 points and 24 rebounds in Game 1 and followed with another dominant outing in Game 4 to keep the series even.
Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander continues to lead Oklahoma City after another MVP-caliber season. The Thunder finished with one of the NBA’s best regular-season records and remain difficult to contain offensively when their bench production increases.
History Points to Importance of Game 5
NBA playoff history suggests Game 5 could become decisive in the series outcome.
According to historical trends referenced by AP, previous playoff series tied 2-2 between elite regular-season teams were often won by the Game 5 victor.
The Thunder and Spurs previously met in the Western Conference finals in 2012 and 2014, with both matchups also tied after four games. Oklahoma City advanced in 2012, while San Antonio won the series in 2014.
Game 5 will take place Tuesday night in Oklahoma City as both teams attempt to gain control of the series before a possible Game 6 in San Antonio later this week.
