Spurs stun Thunder, clinch first NBA Finals appearance since 2014

The San Antonio Spurs’ 111–103 Game 7 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder marks a new chapter in one of the NBA’s most successful modern dynasties.

Led by Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs have returned to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014, continuing a franchise legacy built on sustained excellence, elite coaching, and championship pedigree.

The Spurs are widely regarded as one of the most successful teams in NBA history. Since joining the league in 1976, they have captured five NBA championships—in 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014.

All five titles came under the leadership of Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich and legendary players such as Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginóbili, forming one of the greatest “big three” eras in basketball history.

Their 1999 title was the franchise’s first NBA championship, signaling the start of a dominant run that would span more than a decade.

In 2003, Tim Duncan cemented his legacy with another title, followed by back-to-back championships in 2005 and 2007, where the Spurs showcased elite team basketball, defensive discipline, and clutch playoff execution.

The 2014 championship, often remembered for its beautiful ball movement and redemption after a 2013 Finals loss, is considered one of the best team performances in NBA Finals history.

Beyond championships, the Spurs have also consistently excelled in the Western Conference.

They have won multiple Western Conference titles and made numerous Finals appearances, reflecting long-term dominance rather than short-term success.

Across decades, they have maintained one of the highest winning percentages in professional sports, with decades of playoff consistency and sustained competitiveness.

This current run led by Wembanyama is being viewed as the beginning of a potential new era.

Their Game 7 win on the road against the defending champions highlights both resilience and emerging star power.

Wembanyama’s impact—both statistically and defensively—has drawn comparisons to past franchise legends, as the Spurs once again combine youth development with a structured team system.

Now, the Spurs advance to face the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals, chasing their sixth championship and first in over a decade.