Spurs Delivers Christmas Day Upset, Downing Thunder 117-102
San Antonio grabbed control early and rode a balanced attack to a Christmas Day victory over Oklahoma City, 117-102, marking the Thunder’s third loss of the season. The Spurs leaned on efficient shooting, a strong two-way effort, and timely contributions from their supporting cast to answer every surge by the thunder.
De’Aaron Fox spearheaded San Antonio’s offense with 29 points, supported by rookie Stephon Castle who finished with 19 points and seven assists. Victor Wembanyama added 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Harrison barnes contributed 15 points and six boards. rookie Dylan Harper continued to shine with 12 points as the Spurs minimized turnovers and stretched the Thunder’s defense.
Oklahoma City was led by Shai Gilgeous-alexander, who posted 22 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Chet Holmgren added a 10-point, 12-rebound double-double, and Isaiah Hartenstein chipped in 13 points and 12 rebounds. Alex Caruso contributed 12 points for the Thunder, who found timely offense but could not stave off San Antonio’s momentum.
The two teams traded blows in a high-tempo first half, as both squads showcased their firepower. San Antonio used a 45-point flurry across six minutes to tilt the opening period, with Fox and Castle providing early offense while holmgren and Wembanyama traded baskets in a fast-paced back-and-forth.
San Antonio extended its edge in the second quarter, answering Oklahoma City’s pushes and taking a nine-point lead into halftime, 69-60. The Spurs preserved momentum through the third, with Castle and Fox delivering key answers as San Antonio built a lead as large as 16 points heading into the final period.
The third quarter offered a stark contrast in tempo, as tenacious defense and disciplined ball movement helped the Spurs maintain separation. A Castle-to-Kornet connection capped a stretch that pushed the lead back to 11, while Barnes and Wembanyama contributed vital scores to keep San antonio in front. Oklahoma City never mounted a sustained push, and the Spurs finished the game with a pleasant cushion.
Looking ahead, San Antonio hosts Lauri Markkanen and the Utah Jazz on Saturday at 7:00 PM CDT, continuing a busy week of home dates for the club.
| Metric | Spurs | Thunder |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 117 | 102 |
| Top Scorer | De’Aaron Fox (29) | shai Gilgeous-Alexander (22) |
| Leading Rebounds | victor Wembanyama (11) | Chet Holmgren (12) |
| Leading Assists | Stephon Castle (7) | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (4) |
Players to watch remain Castle’s rapid progress and Wembanyama’s growing impact on both ends, alongside Harper’s continued emergence as a reliable contributor in the Spurs’ backcourt rotation. For the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander continues to shoulder a heavy offensive load, with Holmgren and Hartenstein providing interior scoring and rebounding.
What moment defined the Christmas Day showdown for you-the Spurs’ early burst, Castle’s all-around game, or san antonio’s closing push? Which performer did you find most impactful on this stage?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and tell us which matchup you’re most excited to see next week.
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