Overview
- The Western Conference Finals opened Monday in Oklahoma City with San Antonio beating the defending champion Thunder 122-115 in double overtime to go up 1-0.
- Victor Wembanyama finished with 41 points and 24 rebounds, becoming the first player since 1993 to record at least 35 points and 20 rebounds in a playoff game.
- Jalen Williams returned from a hamstring strain after declaring he was healthy before the series and scored 26 points in his first game back.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the back-to-back MVP, posted 24 points and 12 assists, but Oklahoma City’s previously unbeaten playoff run ended after an 8-0 start.
- This series carries added weight as the first playoff matchup between 62‑win and 64‑win teams since 1998, with San Antonio having won four of five meetings in the regular season.