San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama dominated Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference Finals on June 13, scoring 41 points with 24 rebounds and 3 blocks while playing over 48 minutes to lead the Spurs to a 122-115 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in San Antonio [1, 2]. Wembanyama said after the game, "Yes, it takes a toll. (But) we can rest in July" [1].

The Thunder will host Game 2 on Wednesday, June 14, 2026, at home in Oklahoma City, determined to rebound from the loss [1, 2]. Forward Luguentz Dort expressed confidence, saying, "It’s a long series. We’re not going to be perfect. We’ve been in this situation before and we were able to turn the page... just go out there and try to win the game" [1].

Oklahoma City has a history of bouncing back after Game 1 defeats, including during last season's NBA championship run [1, 2]. Coach Mark Daigneault stressed the team's focus on collective improvement and humility. "The best thing about this team and where the problem-solving comes from is the humility. Everybody looks in the mirror first. No one’s pointing fingers. Everybody’s just thinking about how they can get better, how they can help the team and we work together on it," Daigneault said [1].

On the court, Chet Holmgren struggled in Game 1, scoring 8 points on 2-for-7 shooting, well below his 18.6 points per game and 60 percent shooting average from the first two playoff rounds [1, 2]. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also faced scoring challenges, shooting 7 for 23 but finishing strongly [1, 2]. Daigneault explained, "The best general attacks in the offence will benefit everybody, including him. I think if we play better collectively, he’ll be more involved and we’ll be able to get more cracks offensively" [1].

Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference Finals began on June 13, with the New York Knicks beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 in overtime in Game 1. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 38 points after erasing a 22-point deficit [1, 2].

Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals will tip off tonight in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder hope to even the series against the Spurs.