Spurs Defeat Lakers, Thunder Overwhelm Suns to Reach NBA Cup 2025 Semifinals

Bassyonni

ago 4 hours

In a thrilling night of NBA Cup action, San Antonio Spurs triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers, while the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Phoenix Suns. These victories secured the Spurs and Thunder spots in the semifinals of the NBA Cup 2025.

Spurs Defeat Lakers

The Spurs outmaneuvered the Lakers with a final score of 132-119. Key to their success was an effective transition strategy, resulting in a remarkable net rating of 188.9 in this area. Stephon Castle led the Spurs in scoring with 30 points, emphasizing the importance of fast pace in their game plan.

Spurs free-throw attempts: 36
Lakers free-throw attempts: 23
Bench points: Spurs 48, Lakers 31
3-point shooting: Spurs 44.7% (17-of-38)

The Spurs effectively limited Luka Dončić’s playmaking, as he scored 35 points but struggled to involve his teammates. San Antonio capitalized on its advantage at the free-throw line, finishing the game with a dozen more points than the Lakers from foul shots.

Keldon Johnson made an impact off the bench, scoring 13 points in the first quarter. This early boost was pivotal in establishing a lead that the Lakers could not overcome. Despite a push from Los Angeles in the fourth quarter, the Spurs maintained their composure and responded effectively to every challenge.

Coaching Insights

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson noted the importance of staying focused throughout the game. He expressed optimism about the possible return of star player Victor Wembanyama, who appeared to move well during pregame warmups.

Thunder Overwhelm Suns

In a different matchup, the Thunder achieved a staggering 138-89 victory against the Suns. This decisive win showcased Oklahoma City’s offensive prowess, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributing 28 points and Chet Holmgren adding 24.

Oklahoma City jumped to an early lead, reaching a 20-point advantage within the game’s first ten minutes. The Thunder’s defense played a crucial role, holding the Suns to just 39.3% shooting and forcing 21 turnovers.

Thunder scoring runs: 36 points in the third quarter
Turnovers forced: 21
Points off turnovers: Thunder 34

Oklahoma City’s victory marked their franchise-record 16th consecutive win. This outcome ties them with the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors for the fastest start in NBA history at 24-1.

Game Dynamics

While the Suns battled with efforts from Dillon Brooks, who led their scoring with 16 points, the absence of key players Devin Booker and Jalen Green proved detrimental. In a notable moment, Grayson Allen was ejected for a flagrant foul against Holmgren. However, this did little to change the outcome of the game in favor of Phoenix.

Both the Spurs and Thunder will clash in Las Vegas on Saturday, setting the stage for an exciting semifinal matchup in the NBA Cup 2025.