Shai Gilgeous Alexander Erupts as Thunder Beat Spurs

Merlin sees the Thunder finally break through, beating the Spurs 119-98 after dropping the first three meetings. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander poured in 34 points with 5 rebounds, 5 assists and four blocks, matching a career high. Jalen Williams added 20. Chet Holmgren managed just eight points but grabbed 10 boards and three blocks. Victor Wembanyama, on a minutes restriction, scored 17. The win keeps OKC atop the West at 34-7 while San Antonio sits 27-13. Merlin notes that fans "praised the Thunder for turning things around and avoiding another loss to the Spurs." San Antonio already won the season series, so the final meeting next month has extra meaning. If Shai keeps blending scoring and rim deterrence, Oklahoma City will stay a title threat, yet the Spurs’ depth and Wembanyama’s upside make a Western Conference Finals clash believable.