Holmgren leads Thunder past Spurs in physical season opener — SkimNews
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- Chet Holmgren recorded 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks in the Thunder's 116-104 win over the Spurs, serving as the primary defender on Victor Wembanyama, who shot 1-of-13 from the floor
- Oklahoma City Thunder players converged after De'Aaron Fox's flagrant foul on Holmgren, sparking a confrontation that led to four technical fouls — one on Wembanyama and one each on Jaylin, Jalen, and Kenrich Williams
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 32 points and praised Holmgren as an All-NBA talent, stating his aggression and confidence directly elevate the team's performance
- De'Aaron Fox grabbed Holmgren from behind and tossed him to the floor, then questioned whether Holmgren embellished the contact, saying he didn't throw him that hard
- Jalen Williams admitted he reacted instinctively to the scuffle, acknowledging the $2,500 fine but embracing the moment as the first 'Williams, Williams, Williams' technical foul trio in NBA history
Why it matters: Holmgren’s strong start and the team’s unified response to physical play signal a shift from last season’s collapse, reinforcing Oklahoma City’s contention hopes as they directly challenged San Antonio’s rising identity built around Wembanyama — a rivalry now intensified by on-court tension and mutual physicality.
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