Victor Wembanyama led the San Antonio Spurs to a thrilling 122-115 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the opening game of the NBA's Conference finals. The matchup, featuring the first and second seeds in the Western Conference, showcased Wembanyama's impressive skills against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the defending MVP.

The game, held on Monday, was tightly contested, with both teams having opportunities to clinch the win in regulation and overtime. Wembanyama's standout performance included:

• 41 points
• 24 rebounds
• A crucial alley-oop dunk with 22 seconds left in double overtime, boosting the Spurs' lead.

At just 22 years and 134 days old, Wembanyama made history as the youngest player to achieve a 40-point, 20-rebound game in NBA playoff history, joining Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to accomplish this feat on their Conference finals debut.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praised Wembanyama's unique talent and determination, stating, "He has a rare desire to step into every moment that's in front of him."

In addition to Wembanyama, rookie guard Dylan Harper contributed significantly with 24 points and 11 rebounds. The Thunder faced their first playoff loss after previously sweeping the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers.

For the Thunder, Alex Caruso led the scoring with 31 points, while Gilgeous-Alexander added 24 points and 12 assists. He acknowledged the challenge of the game, saying, "We knew it was going to be a dog fight... We've just got to be better, me in particular."

Game two is set for Wednesday in Oklahoma City, while the New York Knicks will host the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern finals opener on Tuesday.