Things get ugly between Thunder and Spurs after De’Aaron Fox throws Chet Holmgren to floor

Things get ugly between Thunder and Spurs after De’Aaron Fox throws Chet Holmgren to floor originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The new NBA season has barely begun, but the bad blood between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs is already on full display.

During Tuesday night’s matchup, tensions erupted after Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox threw Thunder center Chet Holmgren to the floor as Oklahoma City attempted to make an entry pass into the post.

The physical play immediately drew a reaction from Holmgren’s teammates, Jalen Williams and Jaylin Williams, who rushed toward Fox to confront him.

What started as a physical exchange quickly escalated into a heated confrontation involving players from both teams.

Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama and Jaylin Williams became involved as players pushed and shoved one another. At one point, Wembanyama’s jersey was pulled during the confrontation, while players from both sides appeared to exchange swipes as teammates attempted to separate those involved.

The incident highlighted the growing intensity between two Western Conference teams with championship aspirations.

Oklahoma City and San Antonio have developed an increasingly competitive rivalry, particularly with Holmgren and Wembanyama representing two of the league’s most talented young big men.

Their matchups have attracted considerable attention because of their unique combination of size, athleticism and defensive ability.

However, Tuesday’s confrontation demonstrated that the competition between these teams extends beyond their individual stars.

Fox’s aggressive play appeared to send a message that San Antonio would not back down from Oklahoma City’s physicality. Meanwhile, the immediate reaction from Jalen and Jaylin Williams showed how quickly Thunder players were willing to defend their teammate.

Rivals collide on opening day 

While physical competition is expected between Western Conference rivals, altercations like this can quickly become dangerous when emotions take over.

Both teams have talented rosters capable of competing at the highest level, and neither wants unnecessary confrontations to overshadow its championship goals.

Still, the incident could add another chapter to a rivalry that continues to gain attention throughout the NBA.

With Wembanyama leading San Antonio and Holmgren helping anchor Oklahoma City’s defense, these teams figure to have several memorable battles in the coming years.

If Tuesday’s confrontation is any indication, fans should expect plenty of intensity whenever the Thunder and Spurs share the floor.

The season may be new, but the animosity between these Western Conference rivals certainly isn’t.