Victor Wembanyama Shines as Spurs Upset Thunder to Reach NBA Cup Final

Victor Wembanyama returned from a 12-game absence to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a stunning 111-109 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Cup semifinals, according to The Guardian. Wembanyama scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds, providing a crucial boost to the Spurs and handing the Thunder only their second loss this season, dropping their record to 24-2.

The Spurs' victory sets up a highly anticipated final against the New York Knicks, who defeated the Orlando Magic 132-120 in their semifinal. Wembanyama's performance was met with MVP chants from the crowd, and he achieved a plus-21 rating in just 21 minutes of play, despite being on a minutes restriction due to a strained left calf.

Teammate Devin Vassell added 23 points, while the Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led his team with 29 points. This loss marks the Thunder's second consecutive defeat in Las Vegas, following their loss in last year's final to Milwaukee.

The Spurs, who went 9-3 during Wembanyama’s absence, are now gearing up to face the Knicks on Tuesday night for the NBA Cup title.