The San Antonio Spurs suffered a defeat in Game 5 of the West finals, with multiple factors contributing to the loss. Sloppy turnovers, silly fouls, defensive rotation errors, failure to secure the glass, and missed open 3s all played a part. The Oklahoma City Thunder also had strong performances from Jared McCain and Isaiah Hartenstein. The Thunder offense capitalised by converting 55 percent of its non-corner 3s.
Wembanyama’s Offensive Challenges
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson acknowledged that Victor Wembanyama needed to score more than 20 points after the 127-114 Thunder win. Wembanyama’s offensive struggles highlighted a broader issue for San Antonio: difficulty getting to, and/or finishing in, the paint. Despite the Spurs’ size, speed, and athleticism, preventing opponents from getting into the lane is one of the Thunder’s strengths. The Thunder’s defensive effort was particularly effective.
Thunder’s Defensive Dominance
The Spurs shot just 51.7 percent at the rim in Game 5, their second-lowest mark all season when Wembanyama played at least 25 minutes. San Antonio struggled around the basket in both Game 5 and Game 4. This contrasts with their performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where they shot 72.5 percent at the basket.
Inconsistent Offence Near the Hoop
The 3-point line influences the outcome, but many of those shots are left to chance compared to higher-percentage attempts in the paint. The Spurs employ a 7-foot-4 player who can, theoretically, dunk with ease. It’s jarring to see them struggle near the hoop. The Thunder’s physicality and positioning made it difficult for Wembanyama to establish a rhythm. He scored just three baskets in the restricted area because OKC thrives at forcing opponents to do things they’d rather not do.
The Thunder rotate early, get handsy in passing lanes, and shrink the floor, making it unpleasant for opponents.