Thunder’s Three-Point Struggles Cost Them in NBA Cup Semifinals
In today’s fast-paced NBA, where the three-point shot has become a staple for success, any team struggling from beyond the arc faces significant challenges. Such was the case for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who found themselves on the losing end of a tight contest against the San Antonio Spurs in the Emirates NBA Cup semifinals. The 111-109 defeat highlighted a troubling shooting slump, particularly from three-point range, which played a pivotal role in their exit from the tournament.
A Disappointing Night from Deep
The numbers tell a compelling story. Oklahoma City managed to convert just 24.3% of their three-point attempts, marking their third-worst performance from long range this season. With only nine successful shots from behind the arc, they fell short of their usual standards. This lackluster performance contributed to their overall true shooting percentage dropping to a season-low 52.5%. Additionally, the Thunder’s 15 turnovers placed them among the league’s highest totals for the season, compounding their struggles.
The second half proved particularly painful, as the Thunder shot only 6-of-20 from three-point territory while the Spurs capitalized, hitting 7-of-16. This differential during critical moments ultimately tipped the scales in favor of San Antonio, marking a significant turning point in the game.
Echoes of Past Struggles
For the Thunder, this isn’t an isolated incident. Last season’s championship run was marred by similar three-point shooting woes, notably during their second-round series against the Denver Nuggets, which extended to seven games. The haunting memories of their NBA Cup Finals performance against the Milwaukee Bucks linger as well, where they managed a mere 81 points, shooting only 33.7% overall and a dismal 15.6% from deep.
In contrast, their lone win in Las Vegas last season showcased a much-improved 36.7% shooting from three-point range against the Houston Rockets. Yet, this recent outing against the Spurs seemed to confirm a troubling pattern.
Key Players Struggled to Find Their Rhythm
The Thunder’s usual sharpshooters faltered when their team needed them most. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled significantly, finishing with just one successful three-pointer out of seven attempts. Lu Dort, typically a reliable option, hit only one of six, while Cason Wallace managed to make just one of five attempts. Even Aaron Wiggins, who boasts a 41% shooting average from beyond the arc, couldn’t find the mark, failing to convert on any of his four attempts.
The absence of Isaiah Joe, the team’s best perimeter shooter, only compounded their difficulties, limiting the offensive spacing that the Thunder thrive on. San Antonio’s perimeter defense effectively trapped Oklahoma City’s playmakers, but the Thunder’s inability to convert on open looks ultimately sealed their fate.
Looking Ahead
As they reflect on this performance, the Thunder are faced with the task of overcoming this shooting slump. To regain their momentum, focusing on knocking down open long-range shots will be crucial moving forward. With a record now standing at 24-2 after this loss, the Thunder must regroup as they prepare for the challenges ahead, determined to avoid letting this setback linger in their minds.
