Victor Wembanyama starred as the San Antonio Spurs moved to within one win of a Western Conference final. They took a 3-2 lead against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Wembanyama scored 27 points to lead the Spurs to a 126-97 victory in game five of the best-of-seven series.
Wembanyama’s Performance and Maturity
Wembanyama became the third-youngest player in NBA history to record 25 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists in a post-season game. He scored 18 points in the first quarter. Asked about returning for game five, Wembanyama said he was very anxious.
Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praised Wembanyama’s maturity. Johnson highlighted how the young player performed in a variety of ways and situations.
Spurs Rally After Timberwolves Level
The Spurs allowed an 18-point second-quarter lead to slip. Minnesota levelled the game at 61-61 four minutes into the third quarter. San Antonio rallied again, scoring 30 of the next 42 points to take a 91-73 lead into the final quarter. The Spurs extended that advantage even further.
Potential Showdown with the Thunder
Victory in game six for the Spurs in Minneapolis would set up a showdown with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder completed a 4-0 sweep of the Los Angeles Lakers. Wembanyama had been ejected for the first time in his NBA career in the previous game for elbowing an opponent, although he did not receive a suspension.
Looking ahead, the Spurs will aim to secure a win in game six in Minneapolis to advance to a Western Conference final against the Oklahoma City Thunder.