Spurs Win Game 4 with Dominant Performance by Wembanyama: Highlights

3 and decided to guard MVP guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander straight up, with only doubling him when necessary. The result: Not as many open shots for OKC’s role players, and when they were open, they managed to actually miss. Also, the Spurs gave the Thunder a taste of their own medicine: live-ball turnovers that resulted in extra points. Through a tough and gritty defensive performance, the Spurs held OKC to 33% shooting from the field and 18% from three-point territory. The Spurs led by as much as 25 in the game, and routed OKC 103-82.

Victor Wembanyama led the way with 33 points, eight rebounds, five assists, three blocks, and two steals. Wemby was ultra-aggressive to start after being named to First Team All-NBA. 22 of his 33 points came in the first half alone. Anytime he was in the paint, he was able to take advantage of his height by tipping the ball multiple times off the glass for putbacks. He also drained three threes and stretched the OKC out thin. Wemby is now averaging 30.3 points per game, 13.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 3 blocks in his first-ever Western Conference Finals on nearly 50/40/90 efficiency. A friendly reminder: he is only 22 years old.

Stephon Castle dropped a loud 13 points, six assists, three rebounds, one steal, and a block. Steph was a monster on defense, especially when guarding SGA. With the Spurs’ strategy to trust in guarding without immediately doubling, Steph helped hold SGA to 40% shooting and four turnovers. It is very puzzling to see him left off the All-Defensive teams, but Steph is, without a doubt, using it as fuel. Ever since Fox returned to the backcourt, Steph has only turned the ball over twice in two games. Playing his natural position at shooting guard, he has been able to play without fear of overthinking his game.

Devin Vassell dropped 13 points, six rebounds, three assists, a steal, and a block. Dev continues to do the dirty work and continues to play like a playoff riser. He has played without fear in his first playoff run, hitting timely shots, defending both the perimeter and the paint well, and making the right play every time. Regardless of how this team’s run ends, his performances are close to classic Spurs role player performances.

De’Aaron Fox dropped a double-double: 12 points and 10 rebounds to go along with five assists, a steal, and a block. It has been remarkable to watch this man play through the pain in his ankle, providing the team with whatever they need. He was able to grab a game-high 10 boards on one healthy ankle, and still provided scoring with a dose of playmaking. As stated earlier, his return has allowed Steph and Dylan to play stress-free with his decision-making. Regardless of how the Spurs finish their playoff run, there is no doubt he has earned the respect of Spurs fans worldwide.

This was a much-needed response to keep hope alive in the series. The Spurs may not have had their best offensive performance, but they definitely shut down the Thunder’s offense. They held OKC to their lowest scoring total in five years and frustrated SGA. The Spurs know to expect a big response in Game 5, but this performance has sparked even more confidence that they will keep the reigning champs on their heels. Also, the Spurs should do whatever they can to invite the Salesian Sisters for the remaining games in the series.

The Western Conference Finals turn into a best-of-three series with Game 5 being a huge litmus test for both teams. Game 5 is this Tuesday at 7:30 P.M. (CST) on NBC/Peacock.