The San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder faced off in a preseason game on Saturday, October 9, 2023. The game featured two of the most hyped prospects in recent NBA history: Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. Wembanyama, the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, made his preseason debut for the Spurs and impressed everyone with his scoring, rebounding, and defense. The 19-year-old forward scored 20 points in just 19 minutes, adding five rebounds and two steals. The 7’3″ French phenom went 8-13 from the field, including a respectable 2-5 from behind the arc.
Wembanyama showed his versatility and size on both ends of the court, disrupting the Thunder’s offense with his length and mobility, and attacking the rim with his agility and skill. He also displayed his confidence and competitiveness, flexing after an and-one basket over Holmgren and celebrating with his teammates. Wembanyama’s performance earned him praise from fans, analysts, and even his opponents.
Thunder’s Holmgren returns from injury with 21 points and 9 rebounds
Holmgren, the second overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, also had an impactful preseason debut for the Thunder. The 7’0″ forward missed his entire rookie season due to a Lisfranc injury in his right foot that he suffered in the offseason prior to his first year. Holmgren finished with 21 points and nine rebounds in his 16 minutes on the floor while hitting seven of his ten field goals. He also connected on each of his two three-point attempts.
Holmgren showcased his scoring ability and rebounding skills, using his height and touch to finish over defenders and grab boards. He also demonstrated his flair and personality, flexing after a dunk and hitting a signature celebration move. Holmgren’s return to the court was highly anticipated by fans and media, who were eager to see how he would recover from his injury and perform at the NBA level.
Thunder edge Spurs in a thrilling game
The game between the Spurs and the Thunder was not only a showcase of two young stars, but also a thrilling contest that went down to the wire. The Thunder led by as many as 18 points in the third quarter, but the Spurs rallied back behind Wembanyama and their veterans. The Spurs took a one-point lead with 1:08 left in the fourth quarter after a three-pointer by Dejounte Murray. However, the Thunder responded with a layup by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a free throw by Holmgren to regain the lead. The Spurs had a chance to tie or win the game in the final seconds, but Murray missed a jumper and Wembanyama’s tip-in attempt was blocked by Holmgren. The Thunder held on to win by the final score of 122-121.
The game was a preview of what could be a future rivalry between two of the most promising big men in the league. Wembanyama and Holmgren both displayed their potential and talent, as well as their competitive spirit and charisma. The fans were treated to a glimpse of the future of basketball, where size, skill, and versatility are paramount.
