Wembanyama Spurs vs Pelicans Near Triple-Double in Win

Wembanyama Spurs vs Pelicans: Victor Wembanyama dominates with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and nine blocks as San Antonio wins 120-116 in overtime.
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Victor Wembanyama delivered a near-historic performance with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and nine blocks as the San Antonio Spurs outlasted the New Orleans Pelicans 120-116 in overtime on Friday night.

Wembanyama Dominates Both Ends

The 7’4” sensation put on a show in New Orleans, controlling the paint on defense and energizing the Spurs’ offense with his all-around play. Wembanyama fouled out late in overtime but not before setting the tone with a monster dunk to open the extra period and a clutch block on Trey Murphy’s floater that sealed San Antonio’s momentum.

His nine blocks came within one of a triple-double — a feat rarely seen in modern NBA play. It was another statement outing for the young French star, reinforcing why he’s already being discussed among the league’s elite defenders.

Spurs Show Depth and Resilience

San Antonio’s balanced attack was key in the win.

• Devin Vassell scored 23 points and drained a key three-pointer in overtime.
• Julian Champagnie followed with another clutch triple to give the Spurs a 116-110 edge they never surrendered.
• Luke Kornet provided toughness inside, recording 14 points and 12 rebounds — nine of them offensive — helping the Spurs dominate second-chance points (26 total).

Rookie Stephon Castle chipped in 16 points, including a game-tying 3-pointer in the final seconds of regulation, while Dylan Harper fueled a critical 14-0 fourth-quarter run with seven of his 13 points.

Pelicans Fight Hard Behind Zion and Murphy

The Pelicans battled until the end, led by Zion Williamson, who tallied 27 points and 10 rebounds. However, his missed free throw with 12 seconds left in regulation prevented New Orleans from taking the lead before the game went to overtime.

Trey Murphy III added 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Jordan Poole scored 21. Rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears also made promising contributions, combining for 28 points.

Early Duel Between Zion and Wemby

The night opened with fireworks as Williamson drove past Wembanyama for a highlight-reel dunk and the foul. But the rookie sensation quickly got revenge, blocking two of Zion’s shots soon after. Both stars scored 12 points in the first half, with the Pelicans leading 58-57 at the break.

What This Win Means for San Antonio

This gritty victory showcased San Antonio’s growth and composure under pressure. With Wembanyama leading on both ends and young players like Castle and Harper stepping up, the Spurs are proving they can close out tight games against strong Western Conference opponents.

If Wembanyama keeps playing at this level — flirting with triple-doubles that include blocks — the Spurs could emerge as one of the NBA’s most exciting breakout teams this season.
Wembanyama Spurs vs Pelicans