Spurs Defeat Rockets 121-110 in NBA Cup Opener
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Harrison Barnes led the San Antonio Spurs with 24 points as the team secured a 121-110 victory over the Houston Rockets in the NBA Cup opener on Friday night. Julian Champagnie and Victor Wembanyama also contributed significantly, scoring 22 points each.
Key Performances
- Harrison Barnes finished with 24 points, including the final four points on two free throws and a breakaway dunk with 12 seconds left.
- Julian Champagnie scored 22 points, hitting 6 of 13 three-point attempts and scoring nine points in the final quarter.
- Victor Wembanyama added 22 points despite strong defensive pressure from Houston guards.
Game Highlights
The Rockets' Kevin Durant scored 24 points, while Alperen Sengun contributed 22. Houston’s five-game winning streak ended with this loss.
Champagnie made crucial plays late in the game by securing a contested offensive rebound and scooping a loose ball on defense with the Spurs leading 115-108.
Defensive Tactics Against Wembanyama
Houston guards Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard applied aggressive defense on Wembanyama, repeatedly pushing him out of position in the first half. As a result, Wembanyama scored only four points on 2-for-6 shooting during that period.
Second Half Momentum
San Antonio ended the first half with a 12-0 run, capitalizing on five turnovers in the last two minutes. Devin Vassell hit a three-pointer and Stephon Castle completed a three-point play during the run. Kevin Durant was called for his third personal foul early in the run after shoving Barnes to the floor.
"Barnes scored the game's final four points on a pair of free throws and a breakaway dunk after a steal at midcourt with 12 seconds remaining."
"Houston guards Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard got under Wembanyama and pushed him repeatedly in the chest and out of position offensively in the first half."
The Spurs showcased teamwork and clutch performances to overcome a strong Rockets squad and secure the opening NBA Cup win.
Author's summary: The Spurs edged out the Rockets 121-110 in the NBA Cup opener, led by Barnes, Champagnie, and Wembanyama, overcoming Houston's tough defense and Kevin Durant's 24-point effort.