Stephon Castle Takes Issue With Key Factor After Spurs' Game 5 Loss
Stephon Castle did not sound thrilled with how Game 5 was officiated after the San Antonio Spurs fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder. OKC won 127-114 to take a 3-2 lead in the series, but Castle pointed to a difference in how both teams are allowed to play.
Without directly making it only about the referees, he suggested the Thunder are getting more freedom to be physical, while the Spurs do not always get that same leeway on the other end. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander already a major focus of the whistle conversation, Castle's comments add another layer to a heated series.
"The way they guard, how physical they are, we don't get that same luxury to be able to play as physical on the other end at times."
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 27, 2026
- Stephon Castle.
(h/t @ohnohedidnt24)
pic.twitter.com/IOMRsgUvPH
Castle after the game said, "The way they guard, how physical they are, we don't get that same luxury to be able to play as physical on the other end at times."
Spurs Fighting to Keep Their Season Alive Once Again
The Oklahoma City Thunder needed a bounce-back game, and they got one.
After looking completely out of rhythm in Game 4, the Thunder returned home and beat the San Antonio Spurs 127-114, putting themselves ahead 3-2 in the Western Conference finals. It was a much sharper performance from Oklahoma City, especially on offense, where they looked faster, cleaner, and far more confident.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was back in control with 33 points and nine assists, setting the tone after a quiet showing in the previous game. He also made 16 of 17 free throws, which will definitely keep the conversation around the whistle alive.
The Thunder also got a major lift from their supporting cast. Alex Caruso gave them 22 points off the bench, while Jared McCain stepped into a bigger role and delivered 20 points. That balance made it harder for San Antonio to load up on one player.
For the Spurs, Victor Wembanyama had 20 points, but Oklahoma City did a good job making his touches difficult. Stephon Castle scored 24, and Julian Champagnie added 22, but San Antonio's offense never had enough consistency to fully close the gap.
Now the Spurs head home needing a win to keep their season alive, while Oklahoma City is one victory away from the NBA Finals.
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This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 10:24 PM.