Thunder reclaim West Finals lead with Game 5 win
PUBLISHED May 27, 2026, 3:01 AM ET
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Oklahoma City — The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the San Antonio Spurs 127-114 on Tuesday in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals, taking a 3-2 series lead. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored at least 30 points for the second time in the series, while Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein contributed on both ends. The result hands momentum to the defending champions and forces the Spurs into a must-win Game 6 on Thursday in San Antonio; Victor Wembanyama was limited to a series-low 20 points on 4-of-15 shooting, and coaches noted adjustments and lineup changes that impacted both teams' approaches heading into the next matchup.
By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Regular season ended and playoffs advanced to Western Conference Finals between Thunder and Spurs.
- The series was tied 2-2 entering Game 5.
- Tuesday: Thunder defeated Spurs 127-114 in Game 5, gaining a 3-2 lead.
- Key performances: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 30-plus; Wembanyama shot 4-of-15 for 20 points.
- Thursday: Game 6 scheduled in San Antonio with Spurs facing elimination.
News Intelligence
- If you're a basketball fan, this is a pivotal moment in the Western Conference Finals. The Thunder's win puts the Spurs on the brink of elimination. If you're rooting for the Spurs, they'll need all the support they can get in Game 6.
- Articles Published:
- 7
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 1
- Neutral:
- 5
- Distribution:
- Left 14%, Center 71%, Right 14%
The Oklahoma City Thunder benefited from improved offensive execution and interior defense in Game 5, securing a 127-114 victory and a 3-2 series lead, restoring momentum ahead of Game 6 in San Antonio.
The San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama suffered from limited shooting and offensive rhythm in Game 5, with Wembanyama going 4-of-15 and scoring 20 points, leaving the Spurs down 3-2 and facing elimination in Game 6.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
Thunder respond to Game 4 loss with poise and urgency of a defending champion
The New York TimesFrom Center
Thunder reclaim West Finals lead with Game 5 win
NBA.com Jefferson City News Tribune Sports Illustrated NBA.com Northwest Arkansas Democrat GazetteFrom Right
Victor Wembanyama held to series-low 20 points, Spurs fall in Game 5 of West finals to Thunder
Washington Times
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