Oklahoma City Thunder fans have spoken, and they see the San Antonio Spurs as the team to beat in the Western Conference. A recent fan survey revealed 97% of respondents believe the Spurs are OKC's biggest threat, a sentiment forged in last season's epic playoff battle.
Thunder Wire conducted a 16-question survey with 1,145 participants ahead of the 2026-27 season. The most striking result centered on the team's primary competition. An overwhelming 97% of voting fans pointed to the San Antonio Spurs as the Thunder's top obstacle in the West. This isn't a surprise. The Spurs eliminated Oklahoma City in a thrilling seven-game Western Conference Finals last season. That series defeat, influenced by key injuries for the Thunder, remains fresh in fans' minds.
The playoff history is a major factor. San Antonio's victory in the 2026 Western Conference Finals, which went the full distance to a decisive Game 7, cemented their status. Until another team proves otherwise, they are the benchmark. The talent gap is also significant. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama are arguably the two best players in the entire NBA. Their individual brilliance elevates both franchises into a separate tier above the rest of the conference. Most predictions for the upcoming year reflect this two-team dominance at the top of the standings.
Oklahoma City is rolling as the new season approaches. This includes a dominant 4-0 run to finish their previous campaign. You can review the full schedule on our schedule page.
The Thunder are a popular title pick despite some offseason cost-cutting moves. The core trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams remains one of the league's most successful and decorated. They are coming off a league-best 64-18 regular season record. The mission is clear: get past the Spurs and return to the NBA Finals. The consensus among fans and analysts is that the 2027 Western Conference champion will come from this duo. It sets the stage for another nine-month marathon where these two powerhouses are expected to steamroll the competition. The Thunder's depth and health will be critical factors in turning that prediction into reality.
