{"id":800022,"date":"2026-05-16T06:59:14","date_gmt":"2026-05-16T06:59:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/800022\/"},"modified":"2026-05-16T06:59:14","modified_gmt":"2026-05-16T06:59:14","slug":"3-takeaways-as-castle-spurs-book-trip-to-conference-finals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/800022\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Takeaways as Castle, Spurs book trip to conference finals"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-gray200 mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<\/p>\n<p>MINNEAPOLIS \u2013 Spurs coach\u00a0Mitch Johnson did not know precisely what to expect when his team stepped off the plane for Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against Minnesota.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-channels-pixel.ex.co\/events\/0012000001fxZm9AAE?integrationType=DEFAULT&amp;template=design%2Farticle%2Fplatypus_two_column.tpl\" alt=\"\" class=\"x1px y1px vh abs\" aria-hidden=\"true\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\"\/><\/p>\n<p>All he knew was that he liked the Spurs\u2019 chances.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe felt our guys were ready,\u201d Johnson said. \u201cAnd that&#8217;s all you can ask for.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The Spurs proved that in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expressnews.com\/sports\/spurs\/article\/spurs-timberwolves-game-5-live-score-22261534.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">a wire-to-wire 139-109 thumping of Minnesota on Friday at the Target Center<\/a>, a jaw-dropping victory that sent them to the Western Conference finals for the first time since 2017.<\/p>\n<p>The Spurs face defending champion Oklahoma City in Game 1 of that series beginning Monday (7:30 p.m. NBC\/Peacock) at the\u00a0Paycom Center.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJust the words \u2018conference finals\u2019 is crazy,\u201d said Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs\u2019 22-year-old All-Star center. \u201cIt\u2019s something I\u2019ve heard about my whole life. Now being in it, it\u2019s just special.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Stephon Castle scored 32 points to go with 11 rebounds to lead the Spurs, who got 21 points from De\u2019Aaron Fox and 19 from Victor Wembanyama to close out Minnesota.<\/p>\n<p>Anthony Edwards labored through a 9-for-26 shooting performance on his way to 24 points that paced the Timberwolves.\u00a0With the loss, the Wolves ended their run of two consecutive trips to the conference finals, ceding their spot to the Spurs.<\/p>\n<p>The series was more lopsided than the six-game duration might indicate.<\/p>\n<p>Three of the Spurs\u2019 victories came by 38, 29 and 30 points and outscored Minnesota by a combined 97 in the series. They are the first team in NBA history to win three separate games in a playoff series by at least 29.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>In doing so, the Spurs became only the sixth team in\u00a0NBA history to qualify for a conference final after not making the playoffs at all in the previous six seasons.<\/p>\n<p>The Spurs are headed to the Western Conference finals for the first time since 2017 after closing out the Timberwolves in dominant fashion Friday night, setting up a highly anticipated matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder. A young Spurs roster facing its first road closeout game looked completely unfazed, rolling to a 139-109 win in Minneapolis to seal the series in six games. For more from Minneapolis, visit our website.<\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Express-News<\/p>\n<p>Here are three takeaways from Friday\u2019s victory:<\/p>\n<p><b>1. Castle foiled Wolves\u2019 best-laid plan<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>For the first time in the series, Minnesota opened Game 6 with 7-foot-1 Rudy Gobert assigned to defend Spurs point guard Stephon Castle.<\/p>\n<p>The thinking was simple, and not unlike strategies other teams have employed this season against the Spurs \u2014 Gobert was to sag off Castle, who is not renowned for his 3-point shot, and allow the four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year to camp near the paint.<\/p>\n<p>It didn\u2019t work in the first round, when Portland at times employed 7-2 center Donovan Clingan in that role.<\/p>\n<p>It didn\u2019t work Friday, either.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Spurs guard Stephon Castle on his hot start in Game 6 and improving 3-point shooting: \u201cIt\u2019s just work. A lot of reps. Just staying in the gym. &#8230; I think the biggest thing for me is staying consistent with my footwork, making every shot feel the same.\u201d <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/hdH0gbRbAT\" rel=\"nofollow\">pic.twitter.com\/hdH0gbRbAT<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Spurs Nation (@Spurs_Nation) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/Spurs_Nation\/status\/2055514404125393002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">May 16, 2026<\/a>\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>Castle made the first three 3-point looks he saw on the way to 14 points in the first quarter, then made two more before halftime. The five 3-pointers were the most Castle has made in a game in his NBA career.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Now we see why they didn&#8217;t do it the first five games,&#8221; Wembanyama said of Minnesota&#8217;s defensive switch.<\/p>\n<p>To hear Castle tell it, the path toward ruining the Timberwolves\u2019 night started months ago, with a 3-point shot improving by the day.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Though he finished his second NBA season shooting 33.2% from 3-point range, that clip has been going up since the All-Star break.<\/p>\n<p>Castle shot 42.3% from the arc in March, 44.4% in April, and 40.7% in the first round against Portland.<\/p>\n<p>The 21-year-old Castle wrapped the series against Minnesota hitting a whopping 47.8% (11 of 23).<\/p>\n<p>If he keeps that pace up against the Thunder, Castle will be almost impossible to guard.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs\u2019 Carter Bryant (11) embraces fellow rookie Dylan Harper (2) as they walk to the bench with veteran guard De'Aaron Fox (4) during a timeout in the fourth quarter of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"eager\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs\u2019 Carter Bryant (11) embraces fellow rookie Dylan Harper (2) as they walk to the bench with veteran guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox (4) during a timeout in the fourth quarter of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio resident Ducle Morales of San Antonio cheers on the Spurs prior to the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. Morales, who was also a spectator at game five, came to see the Spurs \u201cclose it out\u201d.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio resident Ducle Morales of San Antonio cheers on the Spurs prior to the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. Morales, who was also a spectator at game five, came to see the Spurs \u201cclose it out\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) reacts after Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) fouled him during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) reacts after Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) fouled him during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) fouls San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) fouls San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) blocks a shot by Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu (13) during Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis on Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs won 139-109 to advance to the Western Conference finals, where they will face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) blocks a shot by Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu (13) during Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis on Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs won 139-109 to advance to the Western Conference finals, where they will face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves guard Terrence Shannon Jr. (1) drives into San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) as he goes up for a shot during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Terrence Shannon Jr. (1) drives into San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) as he goes up for a shot during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) is greeted by his teammates after coming off the floor during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) is greeted by his teammates after coming off the floor during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) goes up for a shot over Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) goes up for a shot over Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the second half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox (4) gets around Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu (13) after Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) sets the pick during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox (4) gets around Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu (13) after Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) sets the pick during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs fans cheer as the Spurs defeat the Timberwolves 139-109 in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs fans cheer as the Spurs defeat the Timberwolves 139-109 in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) goes down as San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox (4) recovers a loose ball during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) goes down as San Antonio Spurs guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox (4) recovers a loose ball during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) dunks over Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) dunks over Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) gives a shout out to a teammate during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) gives a shout out to a teammate during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox (4) pulls down a rebound over Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) during Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox (4) pulls down a rebound over Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) during Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) pleads his case to referee James Capers (19) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) pleads his case to referee James Capers (19) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) yells at Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) yells at Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) takes a jump shot per the Minnesota defense during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) takes a jump shot per the Minnesota defense during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox (4) and guard Stephon Castle (5) react after a timeout is called by Minnesota during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox (4) and guard Stephon Castle (5) react after a timeout is called by Minnesota during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) throws up a three pointer sign during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) throws up a three pointer sign during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) passes a rebound down to forward Carter Bryant (11) during Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) passes a rebound down to forward Carter Bryant (11) during Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The Spurs defeated the Timberwolves 139-109 and will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) gets the layup past Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) gets the layup past Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) takes a shot over Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) takes a shot over Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) and Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) blocks Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) and Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) blocks Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) gets the fans fired up with a big play as San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) looks away during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) gets the fans fired up with a big play as San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) looks away during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1), Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) and San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) protest to a referee during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1), Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) and San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) protest to a referee during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson shouts instructions during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson shouts instructions during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) fights with San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) and Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) for a rebound during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) fights with San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) and Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) for a rebound during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts after a big play while next to San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts after a big play while next to San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) throws up a jump shot over the Minnesota defense during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) throws up a jump shot over the Minnesota defense during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant (11), San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) and San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) walk off the court at the end of the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant (11), San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) and San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) walk off the court at the end of the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) prepares to dunk over Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) prepares to dunk over Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30), talks with Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) before the start of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30), talks with Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) before the start of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"The San Antonio Spurs line up prior to the start ofGame 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The San Antonio Spurs line up prior to the start ofGame 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Minnesota Timberwolves fans hold up a sign mocking San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Timberwolves fans hold up a sign mocking San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs fans watch the team warm up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs fans watch the team warm up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Aleah and Shea Cook of Lubbock, Texas, watch the San Antonio Spurs warm up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Aleah and Shea Cook of Lubbock, Texas, watch the San Antonio Spurs warm up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"Borys, 13, and his father Arthur Sych watch the San Antonio Spurs warm up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The pair traveled from Winnipeg, Canada, to watch the game.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Borys, 13, and his father Arthur Sych watch the San Antonio Spurs warm up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026. The pair traveled from Winnipeg, Canada, to watch the game.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama warms up before Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson talks to his teammates during shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson talks to his teammates during shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell participates in shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell participates in shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama participates in shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama participates in shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson, center, attends shootaround with his team at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson, center, attends shootaround with his team at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox, center, participates in shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox, center, participates in shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox answers questions from reporters during shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs guard De&#8217;Aaron Fox answers questions from reporters during shootaround at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Spurs prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<img alt=\"San Antonio Spurs chief executive RC Buford, from left, general manager Brian Wright and head coach Mitch Johnson talk as the team participates in shootaround to prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>San Antonio Spurs chief executive RC Buford, from left, general manager Brian Wright and head coach Mitch Johnson talk as the team participates in shootaround to prepare for game six of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis, Friday, May 15, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sam Owens\/San Antonio Express-News<\/p>\n<p><b>2. Defense rules the day, again<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The Spurs seized control of the game at the start of the second quarter, when they held Minnesota without a point for the first 5:57.\u00a0The Timberwolves opened the frame by missing 11 consecutive shots, fueling a 20-0 run that left the Spurs up by as many as 29 points.<\/p>\n<p>T.J. Shannon finally broke the drought for the Wolves, scoring an and-one basket on Wembanyama at the 7:03 mark that cut the Spurs\u2019 lead to 56-30.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>The Spurs faltered a bit before halftime, allowing Minnesota to climb within 13 points at the break.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhatever part of the game was our best two minutes, you could flip that and say it was just as bad those last two minutes in terms of just some really undisciplined things that we can control,\u201d Johnson said. \u201cThat was really frustrating.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The Spurs pushed out their lead again to start the half, holding Minnesota to six points in the first 5:59 of the third quarter.\u00a0That, essentially, squelched the Wolves\u2019 final gasp.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Friday\u2019s victory sets up the Western Conference finals matchup most of the NBA has been awaiting since at least January.<\/p>\n<p>The Thunder (64-18) and Spurs (62-20) were the two best teams in the league during the regular season.\u00a0Oklahoma City is seeking to defend its first NBA title since relocating from Seattle in 2007. The Spurs have rapidly cemented themselves as the team standing in the way of a Thunder dynasty.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, on facing Oklahoma City: \u201cOf course we\u2019re confident, but we need to keep the right confidence level. Right now, I&#8217;m not even thinking about it. I\u2019m just thinking about recovering. I\u2019m thinking about getting this press conference over with.\u201d <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/J6Q14XhW2L\" rel=\"nofollow\">pic.twitter.com\/J6Q14XhW2L<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Spurs Nation (@Spurs_Nation) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/Spurs_Nation\/status\/2055512501198930282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">May 16, 2026<\/a>\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>Oklahoma City\u00a0is led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, likely to be named a back-to-back NBA MVP next week, with Wembanyama the likeliest runner-up.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>This could be the first of a decade\u2019s worth of Western Conference finals matchups between these two teams.<\/p>\n<p>The Spurs defeated OKC\u00a0four times in five meetings during the regular season, including three times in a 10-day stretch in January.<\/p>\n<p>That was the first clue the Spurs were in the same league with the vaunted Thunder.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>To get to the NBA Finals, the Spurs will have to prove it again.<\/p>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":800023,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5133],"tags":[5229,7202,7203,358,3187,67,586,132,5230,68,2969],"class_list":{"0":"post-800022","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-san-antonio","8":"tag-america","9":"tag-san-antonio","10":"tag-sanantonio","11":"tag-texas","12":"tag-tx","13":"tag-united-states","14":"tag-united-states-of-america","15":"tag-unitedstates","16":"tag-unitedstatesofamerica","17":"tag-us","18":"tag-usa"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@us\/116582965694076122","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/800022","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=800022"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/800022\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/800023"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=800022"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=800022"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=800022"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}