The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the San Antonio Spurs 122-113 on Wednesday night in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals, leveling the series at one game apiece.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 30 points, spearheading a balanced attack that saw Oklahoma City's bench outscore San Antonio's reserves 57-25.
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The Thunder also capitalized on turnovers, holding a 27-10 advantage in points off turnovers.
Alex Caruso contributed 17 points off the bench, Chet Holmgren added 13 points, and reserves Jared McCain and Cason Wallace each scored 12 points.
Thunder Adjust Defensive Strategy
Oklahoma City adjusted its defensive approach to limit Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, who had dominated Game 1 with 41 points and 24 rebounds.
In Game 2, Wembanyama recorded 21 points, 17 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks.
"Every good player, they have to feel the defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "It's tough.
He's very different to scout. You've got to try to mix things up, you've got try different things.
And that's just what we did."
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault expressed confidence in his team's response after their Game 1 loss. "I had a quiet confidence about that," he said.
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"I didn't know if we'd win or lose the game, but I was pretty sure after watching Game 1 and knowing our team that we were going to come out and play better tonight."