Spurs Defeat Rockets 121-110 in NBA Cup Opener
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Harrison Barnes led the San Antonio Spurs with 24 points, while Julian Champagnie and Victor Wembanyama each contributed 22 points as the Spurs overcame the Houston Rockets 121-110 on Friday night in the NBA Cup opener for both teams.
Key Performances
- Harrison Barnes scored the final four points with two free throws and a breakaway dunk after a steal with 12 seconds left.
- Julian Champagnie added nine points in the last quarter, finishing 6 for 13 on three-pointers, and made critical plays including a contested offensive rebound and a defensive loose ball recovery.
- Victor Wembanyama faced tough defense from Houston guards who repeatedly pushed him off position in the first half, limiting him to 4 points on 2-for-6 shooting early on.
- Kevin Durant led Houston with 24 points, followed by Alperen Sengun's 22 points.
Game Dynamics
The Spurs closed the first half with a 12-0 run, sparked by five Rockets turnovers in the last two minutes. During this run, Devin Vassell hit a three-pointer and Stephon Castle completed a three-point play.
“Durant was called for his third personal foul at the start of the run after shoving Barnes to the court.”
The Rockets, coming into the game with a five-game winning streak, struggled to contain the Spurs' late-game energy and defensive pressure.
Defensive Pressure on Wembanyama
Houston’s guards Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard aggressively guarded Wembanyama, pushing him multiple times in the chest, which disrupted his offensive rhythm in the early stages.
Final Result
The Spurs secured the win 121-110, handing Houston their first defeat in six games.
“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.”
Julian Champagnie’s clutch shooting and defensive effort were crucial in ensuring the Spurs maintained control down the stretch.
Author’s summary: The Spurs' balanced scoring and strong defense in the final minutes ended Houston’s winning streak, sealing a 121-110 victory in the NBA Cup season opener.