[SAEN] 马刺 VS 雷霆，G3：马刺在“严峻考验”中寻找答案 ▶️

[SAEN]

By Greg Luca, Staff Writer | San Antonio Express-News (SAEN), 2026-05-22 22:10:29

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场下半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队前锋维克托·文班亚马 (Victor Wembanyama)（1号）试图封盖俄克拉荷马雷霆队中锋以赛亚·哈尔滕施泰因 (Isaiah Hartenstein)（55号）的投篮。马刺队以 108-123 不敌雷霆队，目前在大比分上以 1-2 落后。

周五，在霜冻银行中心，雷霆队顶住了马刺队开局的猛烈攻势，凭借替补席狂砍 76 分的表现，最终以 123-108 击败马刺队，在西部决赛中取得了大比分 2-1 的领先。

马刺队在开局阶段打出 15-0 的高潮，瞬间点燃了主场球迷的热情，但拥有夺冠经验的雷霆队深谙生存之道，在随后的比赛中稳扎稳打，逐渐消耗并击溃了马刺队。

谢伊·吉尔杰斯-亚历山大 (Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) 砍下 26 分领跑全队，率领雷霆队六人得分上双。

文班亚马得到全队最高的 26 分，德文·瓦塞尔 (Devin Vassell) 贡献 20 分。马刺队五名首发球员全部得分上双，但他们的替补席合力仅贡献了 23 分。

双方的第四场比赛将于周日晚上 7 点继续在霜冻银行中心进行，以下是第三场比赛的实时动态和各方反应：

马刺与文班亚马准备好迎接“严峻考验”

在职业生涯的首次季后赛之旅中就一路杀入西部决赛，中锋文班亚马从未想过过程会一帆风顺。雷霆队作为卫冕冠军和西部头号种子，其实力毋庸置疑，他们注定会给马刺队带来极大的考验。

“这是我的第一次季后赛，对我们中的许多人来说也是第一次。当然，我们会面临严峻的考验，”文班亚马说道，“这是意料之中的事。但现在，我们要看看自己到底由什么铸就。”

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama after a Game 3 loss: “It’s my first playoffs. It’s the first playoffs for many of us. Of course, there was going to be hard trials. It’s to be expected. But now, we’re going to see what we’re made of.” pic.twitter.com/teuOsaaHLL

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

在第一场比赛中，文班亚马狂砍 41 分和 24 个篮板，展现出了绝对的统治力，但雷霆队展现了他们的底气，找到了限制文班亚马的新方法，在第三场比赛中将他限制在 26 分和 4 个篮板。在反思自己的表现时，文班亚马表示他需要成为一名更好的篮板手和组织者。

“我觉得自己现在很难让队友变得更好。这是我应该做得更好的地方，”文班亚马说，“我需要更加融入团队。”

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama: “I feel like I’m having trouble making my teammates better right now. That’s what I should do better. … I need to be more of a team player.” pic.twitter.com/vucFlAA64R

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

雷霆队的替补席在第三场比赛中接管了比赛，以 76-23 的得分碾压了马刺队的替补阵容。

“我觉得我们每一个人都必须做得更好，”文班亚马说，“作为一个团队、一个组织，我们面临着许多全新的体验，我们必须找到应对之策。”

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama on the disparity in bench scoring in Game 3: “I feel like each and every one of us has to be better. As a team, as an organization, there’s a lot of new experiences, and we just have to find the answers.” pic.twitter.com/sceCIe2pSm

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

马刺力求重回快速且强硬的对抗风格

对于马刺队前锋朱利安·尚帕尼 (Julian Champagnie) 而言，周五最让他刻骨铭心的词就是“身体对抗”。在第三场比赛前的投篮训练中，尚帕尼曾表示马刺队必须对雷霆队“予以回击”。然而，比赛开打后的实际效果却只能算差强人意。

“我认为我们表现得还算扎实。但我们还有提升的空间，那就是要保持对抗的连续性，并且要抢占先机，”尚帕尼说，“我认为最关键的部分在于先发制人。而不是在挨打之后才做出回应。我不会说我们打得很糟糕，我觉得还行。但作为一支球队，我们知道自己可以做得更好。”

Spurs forward Julian Champagnie, on answering OKC’s physicality: “I think that’s the biggest part, being the first to hit. Not getting hit and then responding. I’m not going to say we did terrible. I think we did OK. I just think as a team, we know we can do better.” pic.twitter.com/HCc5JVjOKc

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

马刺队在开局阶段势如破竹，取得了 15-0 的梦幻开局，但尚帕尼表示，马刺队在第三场比赛的某些阶段偏离了战术计划，从而让雷霆队缩小了分差。

“除了比赛的前六分钟，我觉得我们一直处于被动挨打的局面，”尚帕尼说，“他们把战火烧到了我们这边。这是我们必须解决的问题。”

Spurs forward Julian Champagnie, a on Game 3 loss to Oklahoma City: “Besides the first six minutes of the game, I felt like we were on the back foot. They took the fight to us. That’s what we have to fix.” pic.twitter.com/qQq8qRpYx5

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

后卫德阿隆·福克斯 (De’Aaron Fox) 和瓦塞尔都强调进攻端需要打得更快，他们认为这是能够缩小雷霆队在第三场比赛中建立的 76-23 替补得分差距的关键因素。

“我认为他们在很大程度上限制了我们的转换进攻。我们替补出场的球员在转换进攻中表现得更活跃，”瓦塞尔说，“因此，如果我们能打出转换进攻并加快节奏，我认为这将对我们非常有利。”

Spurs guard Devin Vassell, on the offense needing to play faster: “I think they limited our transition a lot. The people who come off the bench, they thrive in transition. So, us getting out in transition and playing faster, I think it’ll be a huge advantage for us.” pic.twitter.com/wHeQJ7KQ0R

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

此役马刺队三分球命中率仅为 31.7%，而雷霆队则高达 44.7%。主教练米奇·约翰逊 (Mitch Johnson) 表示，在雷霆队掌控局面的情况下，他感觉球队的进攻失去了往常的节奏。

“我认为今晚有些时候我们一直在被对手牵着鼻子走。我们没有稳扎稳打地去掌控比赛并试图让自己安顿下来，尤其是在时间还很充裕的时候，”约翰逊说，“我觉得我们有几次打得太急躁了。我们自己乱了节奏。”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, on shooting struggles: “I thought there were some times tonight we were chasing the game a little bit. We weren’t working the game and trying to settle in. … I thought we got in a hurry a couple of times. We rushed ourselves.” pic.twitter.com/nY90l39mVL

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

福克斯、哈珀带伤出战

马刺队后卫福克斯和迪伦·哈珀 (Dylan Harper) 在周五赛前均被列为出赛成疑，但最终两人均获准出战，这为马刺队捉襟见肘的后场注入了生机。

哈珀表示，在第二场比赛因右侧内收肌受伤退赛后，他在周五的赛前热身中感觉良好。此役他替补出场 17 分钟，贡献了 6 分、3 个篮板和 2 次助攻。

“这确实能感觉得到，但我至少试着以和以往一样的爆发力和对抗强度去比赛，”哈珀说。

Spurs guard Dylan Harper, on playing through injury: “I always knew I had a chance to play. It was more just going through warmups and how I’m feeling. And I felt good. But I think coming out of it, obviously the ultimate goal is to win the game, and we didn’t do that.” pic.twitter.com/M7pjozncqh

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

福克斯此前因右踝关节扭伤缺席了系列赛的前两场比赛。该伤势是在马刺队与明尼苏达森林狼队的次轮第四场比赛中造成的，当时森林狼队后卫阿约·多苏姆 (Ayo Dosunmu) 在争抢地板球时倒地撞到了他的腿部。

在周五第三节末段与卢·多尔特 (Lu Dort) 争抢地板球时，他似乎加重了伤势，痛苦地一瘸一拐走回替补席。但他依然在第四节初重新披挂上阵，全场出战 31 分钟，得到 15 分、7 个篮板和 6 次助攻。

“这确实很艰难。我觉得那个回合本可以避免，但事实就是如此，”福克斯说，“显然，无法以 100% 的状态出战令人沮丧，但我能站在场上，这对我来说就是目前最重要的事情。”

Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox, on playing through injury: “It’s definitely tough. I feel like it’s a play that could’ve been avoidable, but it is what it is. … Obviously it’s disappointing not being able to be 100%, but I’m able to be out there, so that’s all that matters to me.” pic.twitter.com/QopZ6GuuSL

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

主教练米奇·约翰逊赞扬了两位后卫咬牙坚守的精神，但无法对他们未来的出场状态给出确切的答复。

“我还没问他们感觉如何。我敢肯定他们浑身酸痛，”约翰逊说，“他们正在倾其所有。他们的斗志令人钦佩。”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson on De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper: “I haven’t asked how they’re doing. I’m sure they’re beat up. They’re giving us everything they’ve got. It’s commendable, the fight that they have.” pic.twitter.com/g67pzyvj31

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

马刺后卫德文·瓦塞尔：“我会挺身保护我的队友”

当马刺队后卫斯蒂芬·卡斯尔 (Stephon Castle) 被阿杰·米切尔 (Ajay Mitchell) 的一次恶意犯规狠狠摔在地上时，马刺队的瓦塞尔第一个冲上前去保护队友，与米切尔胸贴胸对峙并将其推开。在裁判对随后的冲突进行录像回放后，米切尔因对卡斯尔的犯规被判恶意犯规，同时米切尔和瓦塞尔各领到一次技术犯规。

“我会挺身保护我的队友。那是我的兄弟，”瓦塞尔说，“第一个回合，那是正常的篮球动作。你试图去防守。但连续两次在他要起跳扣篮时，对方看起来像是推了他。这可能是非常危险的动作。所以我只是想保护我的队友。”

Spurs guard Devin Vassell, on stepping in after Ajay Mitchell’s hard foul against Stephon Castle: “Two times in a row he’s about to go up for a dunk, and it just looked like he pushed him. That could be a dangerous play. So I just wanted to have my teammate’s back.” pic.twitter.com/fHYfB9nJIf

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

雷霆队强硬的身体对抗已经成为本系列赛的主要话题之一，瓦塞尔也并未回避季后赛中不可避免的火药味。

“这就是季后赛。有很多东西，比如身体对抗、拉扯、抱人，所有这些都会不断累积，”瓦塞尔说，“所以，我猜这会积累一些敌意。不过我对此完全没问题。”

Spurs guard Devin Vassell after Game 3: “It’s the playoffs. It’s a lot of stuff that, physicality, grabbing, holding, all of that just builds up. So it’s a lot of, I guess, a little bit of animosity building up. And I’m cool with that.” pic.twitter.com/tqm1HJ5dOi

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

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雷霆替补在与马刺的对决中占据上风

在第三场比赛还剩大约六分钟时，雷霆队的替补席以 65-18 的得分遥遥领先马刺队的替补，这为手握 9 分领先优势的雷霆队提供了决定性的支持。

雷霆队有三名不同的替补球员得分达到至少 14 分。贾里德·麦凯恩 (Jared McCain)（18 分）一人的得分就追平了马刺队全体替补的总和。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场第三节中，马刺队助理教练肖恩·斯威尼 (Sean Sweeney) 大声指挥比赛。

福克斯重返赛场

当福克斯在第三节末段因似乎再次加重右踝关节伤势而一瘸一拐地走下球场时，整个马刺队都屏住了呼吸。

但在替补席接受了一些紧急治疗后，这位两届全明星后卫在第四节初重返赛场。

如果马刺队想要避免在系列赛中大比分 1-2 落后，他们需要福克斯和文班亚马在最后阶段打出强有力的反击。

——汤姆·奥斯本 (Tom Orsborn)

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场第三节中。

麦凯恩为雷霆立下汗马功劳

麦凯恩砍下 18 分，追平了个人季后赛生涯单场最高得分。

这位二年级后卫在进入本场比赛前，在其首次季后赛之旅中场均仅能得到 7.7 分。

在此前雷霆队与湖人队的次轮第二场比赛中，他也曾砍下过 18 分。

——汤姆·奥斯本

雷霆凭借火热手感扩大领先优势

在西部决赛期间，雷霆队的替补席在三分线外手感火热，雷霆队的替补球员在第三场比赛中合力投中了 11 记三分球。

雷霆队三分球 29 投 14 中（命中率 48.3%），而马刺队仅为 32 投 11 中（命中率 34.4%）。在比赛还剩大约 10 分钟时，雷霆队已领先 15 分。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队后卫瓦塞尔（24号）迎着俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫以赛亚·乔 (Isaiah Joe)（11号）的防守投篮。

福克斯踝关节伤势复发

马刺队后卫福克斯在第三节末段一瘸一拐地走回替补席，显然是再次加重了导致他缺席过去两场比赛的右踝伤势。

当时福克斯在马刺队的篮下与多尔特争抢地板球，两人双双倒地。多尔特迅速起身，而福克斯则继续倒地不起，未能参与马刺队的进攻。他在随后的防守回合中勉强支撑，直到下一次死球哨响才被换下。

在出战的 25 分钟里，福克斯 11 投 6 中（其中三分球 5 投 1 中），贡献 13 分、5 个篮板和 4 次助攻。但在第四节开始时，雷霆队仍以 95-84 领先。

福克斯复出提振马刺士气

福克斯耐心地撕开雷霆队的防线，轻松上篮得手。在因右踝关节扭伤缺席两场比赛后，他在复出首秀中已得到 13 分。

或许最重要的一点是，福克斯帮助马刺队减少了失误。在第一场和第二场比赛中，马刺队共出现了 21 次失误，而截至第三节末，他们全队仅有 10 次失误。

卡斯尔在西部决赛前两场比赛中出现 20 次失误（创下季后赛历史上球员连续两场比赛失误最多纪录），在今天出场的 26 分钟里仅有 1 次失误，并送出了 6 次助攻。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫麦凯恩（3号）在防守中被圣安东尼奥马刺队前锋凯尔登·约翰逊 (Keldon Johnson)（3号）击中面部。

文班进攻端表现沉寂，雷霆守住第三节领先优势

文班亚马在第三场比赛的进攻端尚未展现出侵略性，在第三节过半时，他仅 6 投 2 中得到 12 分。

双方共有九名球员得分上双，而两队的得分王也出乎意料——杰林·威廉姆斯 (Jaylin Williams) 得到 14 分领跑雷霆队，而瓦塞尔则以 15 分领跑马刺队。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队前锋文班亚马（1号）试图迎着俄克拉荷马雷霆队中锋切特·霍姆格伦 (Chet Holmgren)（7号）的防守寻找投篮机会。

恶意犯规引发冲突，瓦塞尔与米切尔互相推搡

当米切尔在防守转换进攻时对卡斯尔进行了一次恶意犯规，瓦塞尔立即挺身而出保护队友，与米切尔胸贴胸对峙。

卡斯尔在狠狠摔倒后也迅速站起身来，由于双方球员持续口角，马刺队的安保人员不得不上前将他与雷霆队球员隔开。

米切尔因最初的犯规动作被判恶意犯规，他和瓦塞尔均被追加了一次技术犯规。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场第三节中，在俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫米切尔（25号）对卡斯尔犯规后，圣安东尼奥马刺队后卫卡斯尔（5号）和俄克拉荷马雷霆队中锋霍姆格伦（7号）被NBA工作人员拉开。

雷霆防线展现獠牙

雷霆队引以为傲的防守在第二节给马刺队制造了极大的麻烦。

马刺队在半场结束前的最后 6 分 25 秒内没有运动战进球，仅靠 6 次罚球艰难维持。

从这个角度来看，马刺队在半场结束时仅落后 7 分，简直可以算是一个小小的奇迹。

然而，如果马刺队在下半场找不到破解雷霆队防守的方法，这个分差很可能会进一步扩大。

——杰夫·麦克唐纳 (Jeff McDonald)

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，俄克拉荷马雷霆队中锋哈尔滕施泰因（55号）与圣安东尼奥马刺队后卫福克斯（4号）争抢地板球。

马刺的阵容深度遭遇强劲对手

在过去五个月的大部分时间里，马刺队凭借全联盟最深厚的替补阵容之一屡屡拖垮对手，但在本轮系列赛中，他们也尝到了被对手用同样方式反制的滋味。

即使杰伦·威廉姆斯 (Jalen Williams) 因大腿后侧肌群受伤无法在第三场出战，雷霆队依然派出了 10 人轮换阵容，而且每个人都能改变比赛走向。亚历克斯·卡鲁索 (Alex Caruso)、杰林·威廉姆斯、麦凯恩和凯森·华莱士 (Cason Wallace) 今晚都有高光表现，甚至以赛亚·乔也投中了一记三分球。

与此同时，对于本赛季 NBA 年度最佳第六人约翰逊而言，他的处境十分艰难。在马刺队输掉的第二场比赛中，当他在场时，马刺队净负 14 分。而在第三场比赛的半场结束时，他的正负值为全队最低的 -20。

——迈克·芬格 (Mike Finger)

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队前锋约翰逊（3号）封盖俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫华莱士（22号）的投篮。

文班领到第三次犯规，雷霆领先结束上半场

马刺队开局打出 15-0，但雷霆队顶住了压力，并在半场结束时以 58-51 反超比分，预示着下半场的 24 分钟将又是一场强强对话的肉搏战。

马刺队最担心的应该是文班亚马在上半场就领到了三次犯规，这可能会影响他后半程的出场时间。当文班亚马在场时，马刺队净胜雷霆队 12 分；而当他下场休息时，马刺队则净负 19 分。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队后卫卡斯尔（5号）干扰俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫吉尔杰斯-亚历山大（2号）的投篮。

文班下场休息，雷霆替补掀起反超高潮

在文班亚马下场休息后，雷霆队再次打出一波 9-0 的攻势，取得了 7 分的领先优势，这也是他们今晚的最大领先。

雷霆队的替补席承担了大部分的进攻重任，以 35-10 的得分碾压了马刺队的替补。有四名不同的非首发球员得分达到至少 6 分。

文班亚马在出战的 16 分钟里正负值为 +12，而在他缺阵的约 5 分钟里，马刺队的正负值为 -17。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场开赛前，圣安东尼奥马刺队中锋卢克·科内特 (Luke Kornet)（7号）进行热身。

雷霆威廉姆斯外线手感火热

俄克拉荷马雷霆队的杰林·威廉姆斯并不是一名高产的三分射手，但在他外线手感火热开局后，雷霆队应该继续给他喂球。

这位身高 6 英尺 10 英寸的前锋在进入本场比赛前，场均出手 2.8 次三分球，命中率为 35.7%，而此役他三分球 4 投 3 中。

威廉姆斯的爆发延续了雷霆队替补在三分线外惩罚马刺队的趋势。在第一场比赛中，卡鲁索三分球 14 投 8 中狂砍 31 分，而在第二场比赛中，雷霆队的替补席又合力投中了 12 记三分球。

——汤姆·奥斯本

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队前锋文班亚马（1号）从身后试图封盖俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫吉尔杰斯-亚历山大（2号）的投篮。

文班在首节最后22秒陷入犯规泥潭

文班亚马目前还算不上陷入真正的犯规麻烦。但第一节最后 21.2 秒的经历对他毫无益处。

首先，在一次录像回放后，裁判判定文班亚马在争抢篮板球时对杰林·威廉姆斯犯规。马刺队不仅失去了球权，威廉姆斯还获得了两次罚球机会。

在马刺队的下一个进攻回合中，文班亚马在突破多尔特时又被吹罚了一次进攻犯规。

转瞬之间，文班亚马的犯规数就从 0 次变成了 2 次。随着比赛的进行，这一情况非常值得关注。

——杰夫·麦克唐纳

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队前锋卡特·布莱恩特 (Carter Bryant)（11号）将俄克拉荷马雷霆队中锋霍姆格伦（7号）手中的球拍掉。

马刺在第三场首节早早祭出“法式香草”阵容

在本系列赛的初期阶段，圣安东尼奥和俄克拉荷马雷霆的教练组都尝试了不同的阵容变化。马刺队主教练米奇·约翰逊在周五的第一节中排出了另一套全新阵容，让中锋文班亚马和科内特同时在场。

在这轮充满身体对抗和拉锯战的系列赛中，由于两队都在与伤病作斗争，预计双方在西部决赛期间还会继续调整阵容。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，俄克拉荷马雷霆队后卫吉尔杰斯-亚历山大（2号）试图在中路突破马刺队的重重防守。

文班下场休息，雷霆趁机缩小分差

当文班亚马在出战约 5 分钟后第一次下场休息时，马刺队还手握 15 分的领先优势。

而当他在大约 3 分钟后重新上场时，马刺队的领先优势已经缩水至 5 分。在他下场休息期间，马刺队净负 10 分。

在文班亚马下场休息时马刺队能否咬住比分，依然是本轮系列赛的关键所在。

2026年5月22日星期五，在圣安东尼奥霜冻银行中心举行的西部决赛第三场上半场中，圣安东尼奥马刺队后卫瓦塞尔（24号）试图封盖俄克拉荷马雷霆队中锋霍姆格伦（7号）的投篮。

马刺开局给雷霆当头一棒

在第三场比赛的开局阶段，马刺队没有给雷霆队任何喘息的机会，他们通过犀利的进攻和密不透风的防守，轰出一波 15-0 的高潮。

瓦塞尔投中了两记三分球，而迎来复出的福克斯在开局阶段贡献 6 分，极大地提振了马刺队的士气。

福克斯复出首回合便斩获分数

迎来西部决赛首秀的福克斯在开场的第一攻中便展现出极强的侵略性，通过一次突破上篮首开纪录。

随后在比赛开始仅一分钟左右，文班亚马命中了一记后撤步三分球，瞬间让霜冻银行中心的主场观众陷入了疯狂。

Welcome back @ swipathefox!

NBA on NBC pic.twitter.com/IIw5oF3DCn

— San Antonio Spurs (@ spurs) May 23, 2026

马刺后卫福克斯、哈珀均可出战第三场

在经历了一整天赛前决定的等待后，后卫福克斯和哈珀均被确认可以出战第三场比赛，这为马刺队急需补强的后场注入了一剂强心针。

马刺队在西部决赛第三场开哨前约一小时宣布了这一消息。就在不久前，主教练米奇·约翰逊还曾表示两人的出场状态要到最后一刻才能见分晓。

“他们现在正在进行赛前热身。我很快就会收到确切的消息，”约翰逊说，“但是是的，时间已经很紧迫了。”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, on the status of De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper for Game 3: “They’re going through their routines right now. I’ll get the word pretty soon here. But yeah, it’s close.” pic.twitter.com/vbcqpf0i1o

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 22, 2026

福克斯此前缺席了系列赛的前两场比赛。他的右踝关节扭伤一直困扰着他，该伤势是在马刺队与森林狼队的次轮第四场比赛中造成的，当时森林狼队后卫阿约·多苏姆在争抢地板球时倒地撞到了他的腿部。

作为两届全明星球员，也是这支马刺队中少数在今年季后赛前拥有季后赛经验的球员之一，福克斯在常规赛期间场均贡献 18.6 分和 6.2 次助攻，并在季后赛中场均砍下 18.8 分和 5.8 次助攻。

Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox warming up on the court before Game 3 against Oklahoma City. Fox is noticeably more active than he was before missing Game 2. He’s listed as questionable on the injury report and is considered a game-time decision due to a right ankle sprain. pic.twitter.com/OCXBpDPHZh

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 22, 2026

哈珀此前一直代替福克斯首发出场，但在周三第二场失利的第三节中，他在一次争抢篮板球时落地姿势不佳，随后退出了比赛。马刺队将哈珀的伤势列为右侧内收肌酸痛。

常规赛期间，哈珀作为替补场均贡献 11.8 分和 3.9 次助攻，并入选了最佳新秀阵容第一阵。而在季后赛中，他挺身而出，场均可以贡献 14.4 分、5.3 个篮板和 2.5 次助攻。

Dylan Harper on the court warming up before Game 3 between the Spurs and Thunder tonight at the Frost Bank Center. Harper is listed as questionable on the injury report due to right adductor soreness. pic.twitter.com/DGZcDiIFio

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 22, 2026

此前两位球队主要控球手的缺阵，给后卫卡斯尔带来了更大的压力，他在前两场比赛中一共出现了 20 次失误，创下了 NBA 季后赛历史上连续两场比赛失误次数最多的纪录。

伤病情况成为马刺第三场取胜的最大关键之一

马刺队在第三场比赛中能否取得成功的最大决定性因素，最终可能并不在他们的掌控之中。《圣安东尼奥快报》跟队记者杰夫·麦克唐纳撰文写道，后卫福克斯和哈珀的健康状况很可能将成为左右比赛结果的最关键因素。

此外，新秀卡特·布莱恩特所扮演的角色，以及马刺队限制雷霆队角色球员发挥的能力，也将至关重要。

卡斯尔遗憾落选NBA年度最佳防守阵容

联盟周五宣布，马刺队后卫卡斯尔仅差四分便能入选 NBA 年度最佳防守阵容。

在由 100 名评委组成的投票面板中，卡斯尔获得了 4 张第一顺位选票和 36 张第二顺位选票，总积分为 46 分，仅落后于亚特兰大老鹰队的戴森·丹尼尔斯 (Dyson Daniels)（50 分），遗憾地与最后一个入选名额擦肩而过。

毫无悬念，全票当选年度最佳防守球员的文班亚马是唯一一位全票入选防守一阵的球员，与他一同入选的还有霍姆格伦、奥萨尔·汤普森 (Ausar Thompson)、鲁迪·戈贝尔 (Rudy Gobert) 和德里克·怀特 (Derrick White)。

防守二阵则包括斯科蒂·巴恩斯 (Scottie Barnes)、华莱士、巴姆·阿德巴约 (Bam Adebayo)、OG·阿奴诺比 (OG Anunoby) 以及丹尼尔斯。

威廉姆斯确认缺席雷霆第三场比赛

尽管马刺队在周五迎来了后卫福克斯和哈珀复出的好消息，但雷霆队就没那么幸运了，他们宣布杰伦·威廉姆斯将缺席第三场比赛。

在西部决赛开始前，威廉姆斯曾因左侧大腿后侧肌群受伤缺席了六场比赛，并在对阵马刺队的第一场比赛中复出。但他在第二场比赛的第二节因伤退赛并再未返回，这使得雷霆队失去了一位极具威胁的进攻核心。

在上赛季入选全明星期间，威廉姆斯场均可以贡献 21.6 分，而本赛季由于伤病困扰他仅出战了 33 场比赛，场均得分也下滑至 17.1 分。

马刺准备好应对雷霆的身体对抗

马刺队主教练米奇·约翰逊表示，文班亚马个人可以做出一些调整，同时马刺队作为一个整体也可以采取一些措施来提供帮助。

“显然，这几年他已经通过各种不同的方式见识过这种防守了，”约翰逊说，“但身体对抗这一点往往是恒定不变的。”

如何收看本场比赛电视直播

由生成式 AI 翻译，译文内容可能不准确或不完整，以原文为准。

By Greg Luca, Staff Writer, via San Antonio Express-News

[SAEN]

点击查看原文：Spurs vs. Thunder, Game 3: Spurs look for answers amid 'hard trials'

Spurs vs. Thunder, Game 3: Spurs look for answers amid ‘hard trials’

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) tries to stop a shot by Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) during the second half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026. The Spurs fell 123-108 to the Thunder, who now lead the series 2-1.

The Thunder bench poured in 76 points as Oklahoma City weathered an early surge from San Antonio, beating the Spurs 123-108 on Friday in the Frost Bank Center to take a 2-1 advantage in the Western Conference finals.

The Spurs scored the first 15 points of the game to ignite the home crowd, but a Thunder team with championship experience knew how to survive the storm, grinding down San Antonio the rest of the way.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 26 points to pace Oklahoma City, leading a group of six Thunder players in double figures.

Victor Wembanyama scored 26 points to lead San Antonio, while Devin Vassell had 20. All five starters scored in double figures, but the Spurs had just 23 points from the bench.

With Game 4 set for 7 p.m. Sunday in the Frost Bank Center, catch up on live updates and reaction from Game 3:

Spurs, Wembanyama ready to face ‘hard trials’

Stepping into the Western Conference finals during the first postseason run of his career, center Victor Wembanyama never expected things would be easy. The Thunder are the defending champions and No. 1 seed for a reason, and they were always going to push the Spurs.

“It’s my first playoffs. It’s the first playoffs for many of us. Of course, there’s going to be hard trials,” Wembanyama said. “It’s to be expected. But now, we’re going to see what we’re made of.”

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama after a Game 3 loss: “It’s my first playoffs. It’s the first playoffs for many of us. Of course, there was going to be hard trials. It’s to be expected. But now, we’re going to see what we’re made of.” pic.twitter.com/teuOsaaHLL

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

He looked in complete control during a 41-point, 24-rebound outburst in Game 1, but the Thunder have proven their mettle, finding new ways to pressure Wembanyama while holding him to 26 points and four rebounds in Game 3. Reflecting on his performance, Wembanyama said he needs to be a better rebounder and facilitator.

“I feel like I’m having trouble making my teammates better right now. That’s what I should do better,” Wembanyama said. “I need to be more of a team player.”

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama: “I feel like I’m having trouble making my teammates better right now. That’s what I should do better. … I need to be more of a team player.” pic.twitter.com/vucFlAA64R

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Oklahoma City’s bench took control of Game 3, outscoring San Antonio’s reserves 76-23.

“I feel like each and every one of us has to be better,” Wembanyama said. “As a team, as an organization, there’s a lot of new experiences, and we just have to find the answers.”

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama on the disparity in bench scoring in Game 3: “I feel like each and every one of us has to be better. As a team, as an organization, there’s a lot of new experiences, and we just have to find the answers.” pic.twitter.com/sceCIe2pSm

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

San Antonio aiming for return to fast, physical play

For Spurs forward Julian Champagnie, the No. 1 word that stuck with him Friday was “physicality.” During shootaround leading into Game 3, Champagnie said the Spurs had to “hit back” against Oklahoma City. The results once the ball tipped off were only middling.

“I think we did solid. I think we have room for improvement, just the continuance of hitting, and being the first to it,” Champagnie said. “I think that’s the biggest part, being the first to hit. Not getting hit and then responding. I’m not going to say we did terrible. I think we did OK. I just think as a team, we know we can do better.”

Spurs forward Julian Champagnie, on answering OKC’s physicality: “I think that’s the biggest part, being the first to hit. Not getting hit and then responding. I’m not going to say we did terrible. I think we did OK. I just think as a team, we know we can do better.” pic.twitter.com/HCc5JVjOKc

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

The Spurs opened the night on fire, jumping out to a 15-0 lead, but Champagnie said San Antonio strayed from the game plan at certain points of Game 3, allowing Oklahoma City to close the gap.

“Besides the first six minutes of the game, I felt like we were on the back foot,” Champagnie said. “They took the fight to us. That’s what we have to fix.”

Spurs forward Julian Champagnie, a on Game 3 loss to Oklahoma City: “Besides the first six minutes of the game, I felt like we were on the back foot. They took the fight to us. That’s what we have to fix.” pic.twitter.com/qQq8qRpYx5

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Guards De’Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell both stressed the need for the offense to play faster, viewing that as a factor that could trim the Thunder’s 76-23 advantage in bench scoring during Game 3.

“I think they limited our transition a lot. The people who come off the bench, they thrive in transition,” Vassell said. “So, us getting out in transition and playing faster, I think it’ll be a huge advantage for us.”

Spurs guard Devin Vassell, on the offense needing to play faster: “I think they limited our transition a lot. The people who come off the bench, they thrive in transition. So, us getting out in transition and playing faster, I think it’ll be a huge advantage for us.” pic.twitter.com/wHeQJ7KQ0R

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

San Antonio shot 31.7% from 3-point range compared to a 44.7% mark from Oklahoma City, and coach Mitch Johnson said he felt the offense lost its usual rhythm as the Thunder asserted control.

“I thought there were some times tonight we were chasing the game a little bit. We weren’t working the game and trying to settle in, especially when there was a lot of time left," Johnson said. "I thought we got in a hurry a couple of times. We rushed ourselves.”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, on shooting struggles: “I thought there were some times tonight we were chasing the game a little bit. We weren’t working the game and trying to settle in. … I thought we got in a hurry a couple of times. We rushed ourselves.” pic.twitter.com/nY90l39mVL

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Fox, Harper fight through injuries

Spurs guards De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper were both game-time decisions Friday, and both were ultimately cleared to play, providing a needed lift to San Antonio’s backcourt.

Harper said he felt good coming through Friday’s warmups after leaving Game 2 with a right adductor injury, and he posted six points, three rebounds and two assists in 17 minutes off the bench.

“It’s definitely something you can feel, but I at least tried to play with the same burst and play with the same intensity that I’ve been playing with,” Harper said.

Spurs guard Dylan Harper, on playing through injury: “I always knew I had a chance to play. It was more just going through warmups and how I’m feeling. And I felt good. But I think coming out of it, obviously the ultimate goal is to win the game, and we didn’t do that.” pic.twitter.com/M7pjozncqh

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Fox had missed the first two games of the series due to a right ankle sprain suffered during Game 4 of the team’s second-round series against Minnesota, when Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu dove into his legs while chasing a loose ball.

He seemed to aggravate the injury while contending with Lu Dort on a dive for a loose ball late in the third quarter Friday, hobbling to the bench in visible pain. But he returned early in the fourth quarter and finished the night with 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists in 31 minutes.

“It’s definitely tough. I feel like it’s a play that could’ve been avoidable, but it is what it is,” Fox said. “Obviously, it’s disappointing not being able to be 100%, but I’m able to be out there, so that’s all that matters to me right now.”

Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox, on playing through injury: “It’s definitely tough. I feel like it’s a play that could’ve been avoidable, but it is what it is. … Obviously it’s disappointing not being able to be 100%, but I’m able to be out there, so that’s all that matters to me.” pic.twitter.com/QopZ6GuuSL

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Coach Mitch Johnson credited both guards for toughing it out but could not offer a definitive update on their status going forward.

“I haven’t asked how they’re doing. I’m sure they’re beat up,” Johnson said. “They’re giving us everything they’ve got. it’s commendable, the fight that they have.”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson on De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper: “I haven’t asked how they’re doing. I’m sure they’re beat up. They’re giving us everything they’ve got. It’s commendable, the fight that they have.” pic.twitter.com/g67pzyvj31

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Spurs guard Devin Vassell: ‘I have my teammate’s back’

When Spurs guard Stephon Castle was sent crashing to the floor by a hard foul from Ajay Mitchell, San Antonio’s Devin Vassell was the first to step up to defend his teammate, going chest-to-chest with Mitchell and shoving him away. After an official review of the ensuing dustup, Mitchell was assessed a flagrant for his foul against Castle, while Mitchell and Vassell were both given technicals.

“I have my teammate’s back. That‘s my brother,” Vassell said. "The first play, it’s a basketball play. You try to make a play. Two times in a row he’s about to go up for a dunk, and it just looked like he pushed him. That could be a dangerous play. So I just wanted to have my teammates’ back.”

Spurs guard Devin Vassell, on stepping in after Ajay Mitchell’s hard foul against Stephon Castle: “Two times in a row he’s about to go up for a dunk, and it just looked like he pushed him. That could be a dangerous play. So I just wanted to have my teammate’s back.” pic.twitter.com/fHYfB9nJIf

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

Physical play from Oklahoma City has become one of the primary talking points of the series, and Vassell didn’t shy away from the contentious nature that comes out during the postseason.

“It’s the playoffs. It’s a lot of stuff that, physicality, grabbing, holding, all of that just builds up,” Vassell said. “So it’s a lot of, I guess, a little bit of animosity building up. And I’m cool with that.”

Spurs guard Devin Vassell after Game 3: “It’s the playoffs. It’s a lot of stuff that, physicality, grabbing, holding, all of that just builds up. So it’s a lot of, I guess, a little bit of animosity building up. And I’m cool with that.” pic.twitter.com/tqm1HJ5dOi

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 23, 2026

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OKC reserves getting better of matchup with Spurs

The Thunder bench has outscored the Spurs reserves 65-18 with about six minutes remaining in Game 3, providing a decisive edge as Oklahoma City holds a nine-point lead.

The Thunder have three different bench players with at least 14. Jared McCain (18 points) has matched the Spurs’ reserves by himself.

Spurs associate head coach Sean Sweeney yells out instructions during the third quarter of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Fox back in action

The Spurs held their breath when De’Aaron Fox limped off the court late in the third quarter after appearing to re-aggrave his right ankle injury.

But the two-time All-Star guard is back on the court early in the fourth quarter after receiving some treatment on the bench.

The Spurs need a big finishing kick from Fox and Wembanyama if they are going to avoid falling behind 2-1 in the series.

–Tom Orsborn

during the third quarter of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

McCain coming up big for Thunder

Jared McCain has tied his playoff high with 18 points.

The second-year guard came into the game averaging 7.7 points in his first postseason.

He also had 18 points in Game 2 of Oklahoma City’s second-round series against the Lakers.

–Tom Orsborn

Thunder use hot shooting to extend lead

Oklahoma City’s bench has been lighting it up from outside during the Western Conference finals, and the Thunder reserves have combined for 11 connections from beyond the arc in Game 3.

The Thunder are 14 for 29 (48.3%) from 3-point range, while the Spurs are just 11 for 32 (34.4%). Oklahoma City leads by 15 with about 10 minutes to play.

San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) shoots a basket over Oklahoma City Thunder guard Isaiah Joe (11) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Fox aggravates ankle injury

Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox limped to the bench late in the third quarter, apparently aggravating the right ankle injury that cost him the past two games.

Fox was battling for a loose ball with Lu Dort under the Spurs’ basket when both players hit the floor. Dort popped back to his feet as Fox remained down, never joining the Spurs on offense. He hobbled through another defensive possession before exiting at the next stoppage.

In 25 minutes, Fox has 13 points on 6 of 11 from the field and 1 of 5 from 3-point range to go with five rebounds and four assists, but Oklahoma City leads 95-84 as the fourth quarter opens.

Fox’s return boosts San Antonio

De’Aaron Fox patiently sliced through the Oklahoma City defense for a layup, giving him 13 points in his return to the lineup after missing the past two games due to a right ankle sprain.

Perhaps most importantly, Fox has helped the Spurs cut down on their turnovers, with 10 total late in the third quarter after San Antonio gave the ball away 21 times in Games 1 and 2.

Stephon Castle, who had 20 turnovers through the first two games of the Western Conference finals to mark the most for any player in a two-game stretch in playoffs history, has just one turnover and six assists through 26 minutes on the court.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain (3) takes a shot to the face from San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Wemby quiet on offense as Thunder hold third-quarter lead

Victor Wembanyama is yet to assert himself offensively in Game 3, with just 12 points on 2-of-6 shooting at the midway point of the third quarter.

A combined nine players have scored in double figures as the leading scorers have defied expectations, with Jaylin Williams leading the Thunder at 14 while Devin Vassell paces the Spurs with 15.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) looks for a shot over Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren (7) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Vassell, Mitchell exchange shoves after hard foul

As Ajay Mitchell delivered a hard foul contesting Stephon Castle in transition, Devin Vassell came to his teammates defense, going chest-to-chest with Mitchell.

Castle also popped back to his feet after crashing to the floor and had to be separated from the Thunder players by Spurs security as jawing continued on both sides.

Mitchell was assessed a flagrant foul for his initial challenge, and he and Vassell were both given technical fouls.

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) and Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren (7) are restrained by NBA staff after a foul on Castle by Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell (25) during the third quarter of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Thunder defense sinking teeth in

The vaunted OKC defense is causing all kinds of trouble for the Spurs in the second quarter.

The Spurs went the final 6:25 before halftime without a field goal, treading water with six free throws.

From that perspective, it is a minor miracle the Spurs enter halftime only behind by seven.

That deficit is likely to swell, however, if the Spurs can’t figure out a way to loosen up the Thunder D in the second half.

–Jeff McDonald

Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) battles for a loose ball with San Antonio Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox (4) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Spurs’ depth meeting its match

After spending much of the past five months wearing opponents down with one of the league’s deepest benches, the Spurs are being served some of their own medicine in this series.

Even with Jalen Williams unavailable in Game 3 due to a hamstring injury, the Thunder still play 10 guys, and all of them can be difference-makers. Alex Caruso, Jaylin Williams, Jared McCain and Cason Wallace each have had big moments tonight, and even Isaiah Joe threw in a 3-pointer.

Meanwhile, for NBA Sixth Man of the Year Keldon Johnson, it’s been rough sledding. In San Antonio’s Game 2 loss, the Spurs were outscored by 14 points with him on the floor. Through halftime of Game 3, he’s a team-worst minus-20.

–Mike Finger

San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) blocks the shot of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Wemby picks up third foul as Thunder take lead into halftime

The Spurs jumped out to a 15-0 lead, the Thunder weathered the storm, and at halftime Oklahoma City held a 58-51 advantage, setting up the final 24 minutes to be another heavyweight brawl.

The biggest concern for San Antonio should be three first-half fouls against Victor Wembanyama, and the potential that his minutes could be impacted down the stretch. When Wembanyama was on the floor, the Spurs were 12 points better than the Thunder. When he sat, San Antonio was outscored by 19 points.

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) gets his hand on the shot of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Thunder bench fuels rally while Wemby sits

The Thunder ripped off another 9-0 run after Victor Wembanyama went to the bench for a breather, building their largest lead of the night with a seven-point edge.

The Thunder bench has done most of the heavy lifting, outscoring San Antonio’s reserves 35-10. Four different nonstarters have scored at least six points.

Wembanyama is +12 for the game in 16 minutes, and the Spurs are -17 in about five minutes without him.

San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet (7) warms up prior to the start of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio on Friday, May 22, 2026.

OKC’s Williams hot from outside

Oklahoma City’s Jaylin Williams is not a high-volume 3-point shooter, but the Thunder would be wise to keep feeding him after his hot start from outside.

The 6-foot-10 forward is 3 for 4 from distance after coming into the game shooting 35.7% from outside on 2.8 attempts.

Williams’ outburst continued a trend of Thunder reserves hurting the Spurs from outside. Alex Caruso was 8 for 14 from deep on the way to 31 points in Game 1, and the Oklahoma City bench knocked down another 12 shots from beyond the arc in Game 2.

– Tom Orsborn

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) comes from behind to try and block the shot of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Foul-plagued final 22 seconds for Wemby

Victor Wembanyama isn’t exactly in foul trouble – yet. But the final 21.2 seconds of the first quarter did not help.

First, a video review assessed a foul on Wembanyama for illegally contacting Jaylin Williams on a rebound attempt. Instead of the Spurs keeping the ball out of bounds, Williams was awarded a pair of foul shots for the Thunder.

On the Spurs’ next possession, Wembanyama was whistled for an offensive foul while driving against Lu Dort.

In a blink, Wembanyama went from zero fouls to two. It is a situation worth monitoring as the game continues.

–Jeff McDonald

San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant (11) knocks the ball away from Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren (7) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

Spurs turn to “French Vanilla” lineup early in Game 3

The coaching staffs of both San Antonio and Oklahoma City have experimented with lineup variations through the early stages of the series, and Spurs coach Mitch Johnson turned to another fresh alignment during Friday’s first quarter, playing centers Victor Wembanyama and Luke Kornet at the same time.

With both teams battling injuries through a physical, grinding series, expect both sides to continue tinkering through the Western Conference finals.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) tries to take the ball app the middle through a thick Spurs defense during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

While Wemby sits, Thunder close gap

When Victor Wembanyama went to the bench for the first time after about five minutes on the court, the Spurs held a 15-point lead.

When he checked back into the game about three minutes later, San Antonio’s lead had shrunk to five, as the Spurs were outscored by 10 points while he was on the bench.

San Antonio’s ability to survive while Wembanyama rests continues to be a critical factor in the series.

San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) tries to stop the shot of Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren (7) during the first half of Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Friday, May 22, 2026.

San Antonio jumps all over Oklahoma City early

The Spurs aren’t giving the Thunder any room to breathe early in Game 3, pouring in buckets and stops from all angles on the way to a 15-0 lead.

Devin Vassell hit a pair of 3-pointers, and the return of De’Aaron Fox has given San Antonio a lift with six early points.

De’Aaron Fox on the board quickly in return

Stepping into the lineup for the first time in the Western Conference finals, De’Aaron Fox attacked and delivered a driving layup on the game’s opening possession.

Victor Wembanyama added on a stepback 3-pointer only about a minute into the game, sending the Frost Bank Center crowd into an early frenzy.

Welcome back @ swipathefox!

NBA on NBC pic.twitter.com/IIw5oF3DCn

— San Antonio Spurs (@ spurs) May 23, 2026

Spurs guards Fox, Harper both available for Game 3

Guards De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper will both be available for Game 3 after being considered game-time decisions through the day, providing a much-needed lift to San Antonio’s backcourt.

The Spurs announced the moves about an hour before tipoff of Game 3 in the Western Conference finals, not long after coach Mitch Johnson indicated that the status of both players was down to the wire.

“They’re going through their routines right now. I’ll get the word pretty soon here,” Johnson said. “But yeah, it’s close.”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, on the status of De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper for Game 3: “They’re going through their routines right now. I’ll get the word pretty soon here. But yeah, it’s close.” pic.twitter.com/vbcqpf0i1o

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 22, 2026

Fox missed the first two games of the series due to a right ankle sprain that has plagued him since he suffered the injury in Game 4 of the team’s second-round series against Minnesota, when Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu dove into his legs while chasing a loose ball.

A two-time All Star and one of the only Spurs with postseason experience prior to this year’s run, Fox averaged 18.6 points and 6.2 assists per game during the regular season and has posted 18.8 points and 5.8 assists per game during the playoffs.

Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox warming up on the court before Game 3 against Oklahoma City. Fox is noticeably more active than he was before missing Game 2. He’s listed as questionable on the injury report and is considered a game-time decision due to a right ankle sprain. pic.twitter.com/OCXBpDPHZh

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 22, 2026

Harper had been starting in Fox’s place against Oklahoma City, but he left during the third quarter of the Game 2 loss Wednesday after landing awkwardly during a fight for a rebound. The Spurs list Harper’s injury as right adductor soreness.

Harper averaged 11.8 points and 3.9 assists per game off the bench during the regular season to earn a spot on the All-Rookie first team, and he’s stepped up to the playoff moment by averaging 14.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Dylan Harper on the court warming up before Game 3 between the Spurs and Thunder tonight at the Frost Bank Center. Harper is listed as questionable on the injury report due to right adductor soreness. pic.twitter.com/DGZcDiIFio

— Spurs Nation (@ Spurs_Nation) May 22, 2026

The loss of two of the team’s primary ball-handlers put even more pressure on guard Stephon Castle, who committed 20 turnovers between the first two games to mark the highest total for a two-game stretch in NBA playoffs history.

Health among Spurs’ biggest keys to victory in Game 3

The biggest factor in the Spurs success in Game 3 ultimately lies beyond their control, as the health of guards De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper is likely to be the biggest factor in the outcome, writes beat reporter Jeff McDonald with the San Antonio Express-News.

The role of rookie Carter Bryant and the Spurs’ ability to limit the Thunder supporting cast will also be vital.

Castle just misses on NBA’s All-Defensive team

Spurs guard Stephon Castle fell just four voter points short of earning a spot on one of the NBA’s two All-Defensive teams, the league announced Friday.

Castle received four first-place votes and 36 second-place votes from the panel of 100 voters, earning 46 points to fall just shy of the last spot to quality, claimed by Atlanta’s Dyson Daniels with 50 points.

Not surprisingly, unanimous Defensive Player of the Year Victor Wembanyama was the only unanimous first-team selection, joined by Chet Holmgren, Ausar Thompson, Rudy Gobert and Derrick White.

The second team included Scottie Barnes, Cason Wallace, Bam Adebayo, OG Anunoby and Daniels.

Williams set to sit out for Thunder

While the Spurs received positive injury news Friday with the return of guards De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper, the Thunder were not so lucky, announcing that Jalen Williams will not play in Game 3.

Williams missed six games due to a left hamstring injury entering the Western Conference finals, returning to action in Game 1 against the Spurs. But he left Game 2 in the second quarter and did not return, leaving the Thunder without one of their most productive offensive players.

Williams averaged 21.6 points per game during an All-Star campaign last year, dipping to 17.1 points per game this season while being limited to 33 games due to injury.

Spurs preparing to answer Oklahoma City’s physicality

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said there are things Wembanyama can do individually, as well as steps San Anotnio can take as a team to help.

“He’s seen it now for a few years in different ways, obviously,” Johnson said, “but that physicality piece is typically a constant.”

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