
San Antonio Spurs

Oklahoma City Thunder
Star Player
Victor Wembanyama (SAS) 21m 22p 9r 2a 2b
Highlights
Boxscore
Preview
LAS VEGAS (Interstat) — The NBA’s most dominant force hosts one of its most promising young teams Saturday when the Oklahoma City Thunder, boasting a historic 24-1 record, face the visiting San Antonio Spurs at Paycom Center. The Thunder are riding a 14-game winning streak and have outscored opponents by an average of 18.2 points during that run. Their .960 winning percentage through 25 games is among the best starts in league history. Oklahoma City is coming off a 49-point demolition of the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, a game in which MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander needed just 27 minutes to score 28 points with eight assists. Gilgeous-Alexander has been relentless, scoring at least 28 points in nine consecutive games. He is averaging 32.1 points, 4.3 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game this season, leading an efficient Thunder offense that leads the league in net rating. “They’re playing at an elite level on both ends,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of the Thunder in his weekly media availability. “It’s a great test for our group to see where we stand.” San Antonio (17-7) has been a surprise in the Western Conference, but enters as a significant underdog. The Spurs have won three of their last four, including a 132-119 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. Rookie guard Stephon Castle starred in that win, posting 30 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. Over his last two games, the fourth overall pick is averaging 24.0 points, 7.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists. “He’s gaining confidence every night,” Popovich said of Castle. “The game is slowing down for him.” The Spurs’ backcourt, featuring Castle and De’Aaron Fox, will be tasked with containing Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. San Antonio’s defense, ranked in the top 10, faces its ultimate challenge against Oklahoma City’s top-ranked offense. The teams are set for a quick rematch in San Antonio on Dec. 23 and will meet again on Christmas Day in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma City is a 10.5-point favorite according to FanDuel Sportsbook, with the over/under set at 225.5 points. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.