Guard Stephon Castle suggested postgame Tuesday that referees aren't giving the San Antonio Spurs the same opportunity to play as physically as the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference final.
"Trying to play through it, it's tough," Castle said after the Spurs fell 127-114 in Game 5 to trail 3-2 in the series. "I just think with 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.”
San Antonio struggled offensively in Tuesday's loss, connecting on just 40% of their shots. Star Victor Wembanyama went 4-for-15 from the field, with Castle crediting Oklahoma City's physical defense for limiting the Frenchman.
"They send so many bodies toward him," Castle said, according to Tom Orsborn of the San Antonio Express-News. "It's hard at times."
Meanwhile, the Thunder shot 48% from the field and earned more trips to the charity stripe, attempting 38 free throws to the Spurs' 32. Oklahoma City converted 33 of those attempts.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led both teams in free-throw attempts, converting 16 of his 17 shots. The two-time reigning MVP also recorded a game-high 32 points.
The Spurs will look to keep their playoff dreams alive at home in Thursday's Game 6.
