Spurs Defeat Rockets 121-110 in NBA Cup Opener
Harrison Barnes led the San Antonio Spurs with 24 points, while Julian Champagnie and Victor Wembanyama each scored 22 points, securing a 121-110 victory over the Houston Rockets 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 at midcourt, 12 seconds before the buzzer.
- Julian Champagnie added nine points in the fourth quarter, hitting 6 of 13 three-pointers overall, and made crucial plays with both an offensive rebound and a defensive loose ball recovery late in the game.
- Victor Wembanyama was closely guarded by Houston's Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard, who repeatedly pushed him off position in the first half, limiting him to four points on 2-for-6 shooting during that period.
Rockets' Effort
Kevin Durant scored 24 points and Alperen Sengun contributed 22, but Houston’s five-game winning streak ended. Durant picked up his third foul early in a critical San Antonio 12-0 run to close the first half, after shoving Barnes to the floor.
Game Dynamics
- San Antonio’s 12-0 run late in the second quarter was driven by forcing five turnovers in the final two minutes.
- Devin Vassell hit a three-pointer and Stephon Castle completed a three-point play during this decisive streak.
“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.”
“The Rockets were aggressive defensively against Wembanyama. Houston guards Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard pushed him repeatedly in the chest and out of position offensively in the first half.”
Author's summary: The Spurs overcame Houston’s aggressive defense and key plays from Barnes, Champagnie, and Wembanyama to end the Rockets’ winning streak and claim the NBA Cup opener.