The San Antonio Spurs have revitalised the NBA season by defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder three times in two weeks, puncturing the aura of inevitability that had surrounded the league leaders. The Thunder had won 24 of their first 25 games, with their only loss a fluky 20-point comeback, and looked set to challenge the 2016 Golden State Warriors' record of 73 wins.
Victory over the Thunder has restored suspense and drama to a campaign that risked becoming dull. The Thunder's dominance, built on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's free-throw drawing and Alex Caruso's aggressive defence, had drained the excitement from many games as they ran up large leads. The Spurs, however, have exposed Oklahoma City's mortality.
Victor Wembanyama has been the key, his seven-foot-five frame making life difficult for Thunder centre Chet Holmgren. “There’s this guy on their team that’s seven-foot-five and takes up a lot of space,” said Jalen Williams. Wembanyama's contempt for Holmgren is evident in his celebrations and extra-physical fouls. The Spurs have now beaten the Thunder three times in two weeks, reviving interest in the season.
