Thunder Overcome Early Deficit to Defeat Spurs 123-108 in Game 3, Lead Series 2-1

The Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a challenging start to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 123-108 in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals, taking a 2-1 lead in the series. The game began with the Spurs surging to a 15-0 lead within the first three minutes, energizing the home crowd at Frost Bank Center. However, the Thunder's bench players, including Alex Caruso, Jaylin Williams, Jared McCain, and Cason Wallace, entered the game and shifted the momentum in favor of Oklahoma City.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 26 points and 12 assists. The bench made a significant impact, contributing 76 points compared to the Spurs' bench, which added 23 points.

The Spurs' early energy waned as the game progressed. Victor Wembanyama, who played extensive minutes in the first two games of the series, continued to perform strongly, but the team struggled during his time off the court. Additionally, De'Aaron Fox exited the game in the third quarter due to a right ankle injury, the same injury that had sidelined him in the previous two games.

Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday, with the Thunder aiming to extend their series lead and the Spurs seeking to even the series at home.