SAS vs OKC Preview: Wembanyama, SGA Lead Battle for Round 2

The Spurs had everyone doubting them at the start of the season. However, Victor Wembanyama changed everything by becoming an MVP candidate in just his third year. The seven-foot-four superstar can shoot threes, handle the ball, and block shots with incredible defensive skill. Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle have also stepped up as young playmakers. De'Aaron Fox brings veteran leadership and scoring punch to the roster. Because of this talented young core, San Antonio now sits as the second seed in the conference with a 62-20 record. Nobody expected this team to compete for a championship so quickly, but here they are.

Victor Wembanyama is not just a scoring threat for San Antonio. His defensive presence terrifies opponents every single night. The seven-foot-four star is among the league's leaders in blocks and shots the ball with amazing consistency. While many defenders struggle with his combination of size and mobility, Wembanyama makes it look easy. His resilience showed when he bounced back after early struggles, proving he belongs among the elite. The Spurs' entire defense improves when he anchors the paint. Opposing teams know they cannot attack the paint without facing his shot-blocking prowess and defensive intensity.

The Thunder won a historic championship last year with a 68-14 record that nobody will forget. This season, Oklahoma City still leads the entire Western Conference with a 64-18 mark. However, even injured stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren have kept them dominant. Shai remains the reigning MVP and Finals MVP, orchestrating the offense with calm leadership. The Thunder bench depth runs deep, with Cason Wallace and Ajay Mitchell providing scoring support whenever starters rest. Yet San Antonio has challenged them repeatedly throughout the season. Oklahoma City understands that the Spurs represent their greatest threat to another championship.