Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs ended the Oklahoma City Thunder‘s 16-game winning streak on Saturday. It was an intense game for both teams as it was the Emirates NBA Cup Semifinals. It was also Wembanyama’s first game back after missing 12 straight games due to a calf strain.
The Frenchman had 22 points off the bench in his first game back, giving the Spurs a 111-109 win. It was a must-see contest for NBA fans, since it highlighted the rivalry between Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. On Monday, the Spurs star was asked if there was a rivalry between the two teams.
However, the star big man downplayed it, saying that the Thunder are currently in a league of their own.
“I think we’re not quite there yet but it’s a good sign that people see that it’s possible,” the Spurs star said. “It’s not like we’re the second seed right now. I don’t think anybody right now can claim to have a rivalry with them in the league.
Wemby on Spurs/Thunder potentially becoming a rivalry:
"I think we're not quite there yet but it's a good sign that people see that it's possible. It's not like we're the second seed right now. I don't think anybody right now can claim to have a rivalry with them in the league.… pic.twitter.com/jnCZCnUGTB
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) December 15, 2025
“They’re in their own tier, but in the future, provided that they stay just as good and we reach that level, of course it’d be great to have a rivalry. I’m very interested by it.”
Their contest last Saturday was the first time they met this season. Both teams will see each other four more times throughout the year.
The Spurs’ burgeoning backcourt duo gets high praise from Victor Wembanyama
Aside from Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs have a promising backcourt in Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle. Their ability to cut through defenses has earned them the nickname “Slash Brothers.” During his Monday presser, the 2024 Rookie of the Year had high praise for the team’s burgeoning duo.
“That’s an ability that’s so useful in this league, and even more useful when you have shooters around it. It’s two very young guys that are already able to do that. They’re going to be huge problems,” Wembanyama said.
“Having Dylan and Steph—and De’Aaron [Fox] of course—the ability they have to get downhill makes a whole difference. It shifts the defense’s focus and just opens up things for everyone.”
Having the backcourt duo is a significant help for Victor Wembanyama’s growth. They only need time to grow as players and start something special with the superstar. San Antonio could be brewing a new star trio.
