Victor Wembanyama notches first NBA win, leads Spurs past Rockets

San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama notched his first NBA win on Friday night, leading the Spurs to a 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets. Wembanyama finished the game with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and one assist, including the game-tying basket with 20 seconds left in regulation and the opening basket in overtime.

Wembanyama’s performance was particularly impressive considering that he had a slow start to the game. He shot just 3-for-12 from the field in the first three quarters, but he came alive in the fourth quarter and overtime. He scored 13 of his 21 points in the final frame, including the game-tying basket with 20 seconds left.

Wembanyama’s double-double was his second in as many games, and his 21 points marked a new career high. He also showed off his defensive skills with three blocks, including two on Rockets rookie Jabari Smith Jr. in the fourth quarter.

Wembanyama’s first NBA win is a major milestone for the young player and a sign of good things to come for the Spurs. He was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, and he is widely considered to be one of the most promising prospects in recent memory. His performance on Friday night showed that he is ready to contribute at the NBA level, and he is poised to be a star for the Spurs for many years to come.

In addition to his impressive statistics, Wembanyama also made a number of key plays down the stretch to help the Spurs secure the victory. For example, he made a tough layup with 1:30 left in regulation to tie the game at 112-112. Then, with the Spurs trailing by two points in overtime, he grabbed a rebound and started a fast break that led to a dunk by Keldon Johnson. Wembanyama also made a key free throw with 16 seconds left in overtime to put the Spurs up by three points.

Wembanyama’s performance was praised by his teammates and coaches after the game. Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich said that Wembanyama “is a special player” and that he is “excited to see what he can do in the future.” Spurs guard Devin Vassell said that Wembanyama is “one of the most talented players in the NBA” and that he is “going to be a superstar.”

Wembanyama’s first NBA win is a moment that Spurs fans will remember for years to come. It is a sign that the Spurs have a bright future ahead of them, and that Wembanyama is poised to be one of the faces of the NBA in the years to come.

Source