Thunder-Rockets: 5 Key Insights from the Emirates NBA Cup Semifinals

LAS VEGAS – The second Emirates NBA Cup semifinal between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets was a gritty affair, showcasing the defensive prowess of both teams. With two of the NBA's youngest squads vying for supremacy in the Western Conference, this matchup could ignite a fierce rivalry for seasons to come.

As the Thunder claimed a decisive 111-96 victory, they not only secured a spot in the Cup championship but also positioned themselves as a formidable force in the league. With a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on the horizon, the stakes are high, as the winning team stands to earn over $500,000 per player.

Here are five pivotal takeaways from Saturday’s battle:

1. Defensive Dominance