Spurs Outlast Pelicans in Thrilling Overtime Victory

Strategic Insights -

The San Antonio Spurs held off the New Orleans Pelicans 120-116 in a nail-biting overtime win on Friday night, led by Victor Wembanyama's 29 points, 11 rebounds, and nine blocks, before fouling out in the extra period. Devin Vassell and Julian Champagnie made crucial three-pointers in overtime to seal the win for the Spurs. Zion Williamson had 27 points and 10 rebounds for the Pelicans, who pushed the game to overtime with a dramatic free throw to tie the score at 107 with 12 seconds left in regulation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Victor Wembanyama's remarkable performance included 29 points, 11 rebounds, and nine blocks in his 36 minutes of play, before fouling out in overtime.
  • Devin Vassell and Julian Champagnie made crucial three-pointers in overtime to seal the win for the Spurs, with Vassell's shot coming with 19.8 seconds left in regulation.
  • Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 27 points and 10 rebounds, but his team couldn't overcome the Spurs' 26 second-chance points.
  • Luke Kornet contributed 14 points, 12 rebounds, and nine of his teammates' misses to the Spurs' 20 offensive rebounds and 26 second-chance points.
  • Trey Murphy scored 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Pelicans, but his floater was blocked by Wembanyama in overtime.
  • Jordan Poole added 21 points for the Pelicans, while rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears scored 15 and 13 points, respectively.

Statistics:

  • The Spurs had 20 offensive rebounds and 26 second-chance points in the game.
  • Zion Williamson and Victor Wembanyama each scored 12 points in the first half as the Pelicans led 58-57.
  • Devin Vassell hit a 3-pointer with 19.8 seconds left in regulation, and Julian Champagnie made another from deep shortly after to give the Spurs a 116-110 lead.
  • Victor Wembanyama's last block came when he swatted away Trey Murphy's floater in overtime.

Sources:

  • AP (February 2025)