Emirates NBA Cup 2025: Thunder, Spurs complete semifinals cast in Las Vegas

The field is set for the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas after the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs punched their tickets with decisive quarterfinal wins on Wednesday.

In a dominant showing, the defending champion Thunder overwhelmed the Phoenix Suns 138-89 in their knockout matchup – marking Oklahoma City’s 16th straight win this season and extending their historic 24-1 start. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 28 points and eight assists, while Chet Holmgren added 24 points and eight boards, sending the Thunder to Vegas with momentum.

The Spurs also booked their spot in Las Vegas with a strong 132-119 road win over the Los Angeles Lakers. Rookie Stephon Castle exploded for a season-high 30 points along with 10 rebounds and six assists, pacing San Antonio’s balanced attack. De’Aaron Fox (20 points) and Keldon Johnson (17) contributed key scoring as the Spurs rode their speed and depth past a Lakers squad that couldn’t sustain momentum.

The semifinal pairings will take place at the T-Mobile Arena on Saturday (Dec. 13):

• New York Knicks vs. Orlando Magic
• Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs