Spurs vs. Thunder Live Updates: 2026 NBA Playoffs Game 5 Start Time, Odds, Picks and Predictions
The San Antonio Spurs’ most memorable moments in Game 4 came on offense, highlighted by Victor Wembanyama’s deep 42-foot buzzer-beater at the end of the first half. But the victory was ultimately secured by San Antonio’s defense, which overwhelmed the Oklahoma City Thunder and controlled the game from start to finish.
According to Law Murray, the Thunder failed to score 90 points for the first time since the 2021-22 season. Oklahoma City had to rely on garbage-time minutes just to get within 10 points of that threshold, finishing eight points short. The loss also marked a rare quiet night for the Thunder’s top scorers, as no Oklahoma City player reached the 20-point mark. MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled to find his rhythm, finishing 6-of-15 from the field.
The Thunder’s offensive issues were partly the result of poor shooting. Oklahoma City made just 33% of its field-goal attempts and connected on only 18% of its three-pointers. The team also entered the game without Ajay Mitchell and Jalen Williams, absences that likely affected its scoring depth and overall flow on offense.
Still, the Spurs deserve the credit for forcing those struggles. San Antonio played with energy and discipline on defense, collecting 11 steals and 10 blocks while repeatedly disrupting Oklahoma City’s possessions. The Spurs prevented the Thunder from building momentum at any point in the game and never allowed them to mount a meaningful comeback.
Wembanyama’s long-range shot may have been the highlight that drew the most attention, but the Spurs’ defensive execution was the true difference-maker. Their ability to pressure the ball, contest shots, and capitalize on mistakes kept the Thunder off balance throughout the contest.
The win reflected a complete team effort from San Antonio, with defense serving as the foundation for a statement performance. Oklahoma City’s shooting slump and missing contributors made the challenge harder, but the Spurs were in control regardless, using active hands, rim protection, and relentless pressure to take away easy looks and stop any Thunder surge before it could begin.
In the end, Game 4 was defined less by one spectacular shot than by San Antonio’s commitment on the defensive end. The Spurs turned a strong all-around performance into a convincing win, while Oklahoma City was left searching for answers after one of its most inefficient offensive nights in recent seasons.
