OKLAHOMA CITY : The San Antonio Spurs ended the title defense of the Oklahoma City Thunder with a 111-103 road victory in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals on Saturday, advancing to their first NBA Finals since 2014.
With Spurs star Victor Wembanyama sidelined by foul trouble late in the fourth quarter, reserve center Luke Kornet delivered a pivotal defensive play. Moments after entering the game, Kornet blocked a transition layup attempt by Isaiah Hartenstein, helping preserve San Antonio’s lead before Stephon Castle converted a jumper at the other end to extend the advantage.
The Spurs led for most of the contest but were repeatedly challenged by Oklahoma City, which erased several double-digit deficits to remain within striking distance.
Wembanyama finished with 22 points and seven rebounds and was named Western Conference Finals MVP. Julian Champagnie added 20 points, including six three-pointers, while Castle, De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper also made key contributions.
The Thunder closed within six points with just over two minutes remaining, but failed to score on their final four attempts to mount a comeback.
San Antonio will host the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday. The Spurs are seeking their sixth NBA championship and first since 2014.
