Thunder Outplayed Again by Spurs: Gilgeous-Alexander Calls for Reflection After Third Loss
OKLAHOMA CITY - The Thunder came into Christmas Day looking to make a statement. Instead, they walked off the court with a familiar feeling - another loss to the San Antonio Spurs. For the third time in just two weeks, Oklahoma City fell short against a Spurs team that continues to have their number, this time by a score of 117-102.
After the game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander didn’t sugarcoat it. The All-Star guard, who’s been the engine behind OKC’s rise this season, gave an honest assessment of where things stand - and what needs to change.
“You don’t lose to a team three times in a row in a short span without them being better than you,” Gilgeous-Alexander said postgame. “We have to get better. Look in the mirror, and that’s everybody from top to bottom, if we want to reach our ultimate goal.”
That’s not just frustration talking - that’s accountability. And it’s coming from the face of the franchise.
Make no mistake, this wasn’t just a bad night. This was a trend.
Three meetings, three losses. That’s a pattern the Thunder can’t afford to ignore, especially against a team that’s still rebuilding around a generational rookie talent.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: “We have to get better as group. You don’t lose to a team three times in a row in a short span without them being better than you.
— Josue Pavón (@Joe_Sway) December 25, 2025
We have to get better. Look in the mirror, and that’s everybody from top to bottom, if we want to reach our ultimate goal” pic.twitter.com/g6tBBqGhOZ
The Spurs have figured something out in this matchup - whether it’s their defensive schemes, their pace, or just the way they’ve executed down the stretch - and Oklahoma City hasn’t had an answer.
What’s especially striking is that this loss came at home, on a national stage, in front of a holiday crowd that expected a bounce-back performance. Instead, OKC looked out of rhythm for long stretches, struggling to find consistency on either end of the floor.
Gilgeous-Alexander's comments reflect more than just a tough night - they echo the mindset of a team that knows it’s capable of more. This is a Thunder squad with legitimate aspirations, and nights like this serve as a reminder that talent alone won’t get them where they want to go. Execution, preparation, and yes, humility - all of that matters.
The good news? There’s time.
The Thunder are still in the thick of the Western Conference race, and they’ve got a chance to reset quickly. Next up: a home matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday.
Another big test, another opportunity to respond.
But if this team wants to take the next step, it starts with doing exactly what Gilgeous-Alexander said - looking in the mirror. Because three straight losses to the same opponent isn’t just a fluke. It’s a wake-up call.