LAS VEGAS — There was a moment during Saturday’s NBA Cup semifinal game between the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder when it started to feel like Victor Wembanyama’s return was a ruse.

As Chet Holmgren set a screen, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander found himself up against Victor Wembanyama. Going with his usually reliable stepback 3-pointer, his attempt clanked at the front of the rim. The seven-footer contested his jumper just enough to get the miss.