Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020.

The Oklahoma City Thunder moved within one win of another NBA Finals appearance after beating the San Antonio Spurs 127-114 in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals on May 26 at Paycom Center. But much of the post-game focus landed on Jared McCain, whose breakout playoff form continued with a 20-point display in his first postseason start. The former Philadelphia 76ers guard exploded in the second half as Oklahoma City seized control of the series, raising more questions about Philadelphia’s decision to trade him earlier this season.

McCain shines again in biggest moment

After a disappointing offensive showing in Game 4, the Thunder responded with far more intensity from the opening quarter. The crowd inside Paycom Center lifted every time Oklahoma City pushed the pace, and McCain quickly became part of the momentum swing.

The young guard scored 18 of his 20 points after halftime and attacked confidently whenever San Antonio’s defence hesitated. One tough finish through traffic late in the fourth quarter brought the home fans to their feet and capped another strong playoff performance.

McCain’s recent rise has added attention to the February trade that sent him from Philadelphia to Oklahoma City. At the time, former 76ers executive Daryl Morey claimed the organisation had “sold high”, but the comment has returned to the spotlight as McCain continues producing in high-pressure playoff games.

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Gilgeous-Alexander controls the game

While McCain delivered the spark, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again led Oklahoma City with 33 points, nine assists and two steals. His shooting from the field was inconsistent at 7-for-19, but he stayed calm at the free-throw line, making 16 of 17 attempts.

Every time San Antonio threatened to cut the margin, Gilgeous-Alexander slowed the tempo and forced the Spurs into difficult defensive situations. Oklahoma City led by double digits at halftime and never fully lost control despite a brief Spurs run in the fourth quarter.

Veteran guard Alex Caruso also played a major role off the bench with 22 points, six assists and three steals in another energetic performance.

Spurs running out of answers

Victor Wembanyama finished with 20 points, six rebounds, three blocks and two steals, although Oklahoma City’s defensive pressure clearly disrupted his rhythm. He shot just 4-for-15 from the field and struggled to create easy opportunities inside the half court.

Stephon Castle added 24 points while Julian Champagnie contributed 22, but San Antonio again lacked enough scoring support across the roster.

The frustration on the Spurs bench became obvious late in the third quarter when head coach Mitch Johnson reacted angrily after unsuccessfully trying to challenge an out-of-bounds decision. The moment resulted in a technical foul and reflected San Antonio’s growing frustration as the Thunder steadily pulled away.

The Spurs now trail the series 3-2 and must win back-to-back games to avoid elimination.

Smartplay Tip and Prediction

Oklahoma City has looked more composed in late-game moments throughout the series, and McCain’s emergence gives the Thunder another reliable scoring option alongside Gilgeous-Alexander. San Antonio still has the talent to extend the series, especially with Wembanyama capable of dominating any matchup, but the momentum clearly sits with OKC heading into Game 6.

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