Victor Wembanyama Left Searching for Answers After Spurs’ Game 3 Loss

Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Victor Wembanyama Left Searching for Answers After Spurs’ Game 3 Loss

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Abdul Bari Khan | Last updated May 23, 2026 10:55 AM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder continued to extend their lead in the series with a Game 3 win against the San Antonio Spurs. While the loss was evidently frustrating for Victor Wembanyama, he addressed the reason behind the Thunder’s back-to-back wins.

The Spurs couldn’t take advantage of the home crowd at Frost Bank Center as they ended up losing 123-108. While Mitch Johnson’s men proved their resilience in Game 1, things have favored the Thunder over the past two games.

Following another defeat, Wembanyama was asked about the defensive style of his opponents and how they have managed to stop the 7-foot-4 NBA star from scoring. He responded by saying, “They’re being physical, the difference maybe with this team is their experience, they’re maybe being more smart about it.”

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shoots as San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama defends during third quarter of Game 2 of the 2026 NBA Western Conference Finals. Brett Rojo-Imagn Images

The 22-year-old continued to remain confident in finding a solution against OKC’s defense. “But we just got to find the answers. We’re gonna watch film. We’re gonna figure it out,” Wembanyama said. Game 3 was filled with physicality, which also led to Ajay Mitchell and Devin Vassell getting heated.

The Thunder player received a Flagrant 1 foul, while a technical foul was called against Vassell. OKC committed 25 fouls compared to the Spurs’ 28. But with their experience, the defending NBA champions looked more comfortable with the style of play, especially from the free-throw line.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain (3) makes a layup on San Antonio Spurs forward Victor WembanyamaScott Wachter-Imagn Images

Nonetheless, Wembanyama didn’t fail to impress as he continued his good form by leading the Spurs in scoring with 26 points. On the other side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander matched him with the same number of points while also adding 12 assists. The Frenchman continued to lead the series in scoring with 62 points, while SGA led in assists.

The two-time NBA MVP has recorded 21 assists through the three games. Now, as the Spurs look to bounce back in Game 4, they will search for answers to overcome the Thunder’s defense. Wembanyama, however, did not sound discouraged afterward. Instead, his comments reflected the mindset of a team still adjusting to playoff basketball against a group that already knows what it takes to win at the highest level.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: