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Duke alums spotlighted in historic Game 7 performances ahead of NBA Finals

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: May 31, 2026, 5:45 PM

Last updated May 31, 2026

Duke alums spotlighted in historic Game 7 performances ahead of NBA Finals

Summary

The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs will compete in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals tonight, with stakes high for former Duke players. Jared McCain, recently traded to the Thunder, aims for his first NBA Finals appearance, while Mason Plumlee seeks his first championship after 13 seasons. Jayson Tatum and Kyrie Irving have shown strong performances in past Game 7s, with Tatum's 2023 showing of 51 points against the 76ers marking a standout moment. Other Duke alumni, like Paolo Banchero, also have notable Game 7 performances despite their teams falling short. The outcome of tonight's game will determine who advances to the NBA Finals.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Oklahoma City Thunder face San Antonio Spurs in NBA Game 7 tonight.
•Jared McCain seeks first Finals appearance after trade from Philadelphia.
•Mason Plumlee aims for first championship in his 13th NBA season.
•Jayson Tatum scored 51 points in a 2023 Game 7 against the 76ers.
•Paolo Banchero scored 38 points in two previous Game 7s.

Latest Updates

5:45 PMYahoo Sports — Top-three Game 7s from Duke alums in recent NBA history

What they're saying

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In recent seasons, former Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum and Kyrie Irving have put together the strongest Game 7 performances of Duke alumni.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Boston Celtics NBA Basketball