Is it simply me, or have we been right here earlier than? As soon as once more the San Antonio Spurs gave up a double-digit result in a shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies group in a 99-97 loss. This time, the Spurs fought again late and almost stole the win away from Memphis. A clutch shot from Jaren Jackson Jr. sealed the sport, however for a second, it appeared just like the Spurs would drive time beyond regulation.
Each groups struggled offensively, because the Spurs shot simply 38.9% from the sphere whereas Memphis made simply 40.2% of their photographs. San Antonio particularly struggled from the three-point line, the place they made 7-38 photographs from deep (18.4%.) Each groups struggled to deal with the ball, turning it over 15+ instances.
Victor Wembanyama led the best way for the Spurs. He had 31 factors, 16 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and three blocks. He began the sport out with a bang.
The audacity for Wembanyama to tug up from the brand in one of many Spurs first offensive possessions is borderline psycho. Some nights you might be simply feeling it, and Wembanyama actually was on Friday.
Wembanyama’s passing was on full show in opposition to the Grizzlies. This shovel go to Jeremy Sochan for the slam is precisely what you need to see from their two man recreation. Sochan can capitalize on the additional consideration Wembanyama will get by merely being lively slicing to the ring.
This behind the again go was one of many sweetest of the night time from Wemby. He by no means seizes to amaze along with his aptitude for the sport. Devin Vassell hitting the step again jumper is the icing on the cake.
When Wembanyama is in assault mode, he’s unstoppable. It’s nice to see him getting extra assured along with his deal with, and taking it at defenders across the basket. He’s in a position to get low and shield the ball sufficient on drives to the rim. In fact it’s simpler for him to complete on the rim along with his size, which he makes use of his benefit to attain over Santi Aldama right here.
Wembanyama acquired one other Nerf Hoop dunk below his belt on Friday. It’s so enjoyable to observe the massive man run the break and catch lobs for spotlight dunks.
The Vassell-Wembanyama two-man recreation continues to be fruitful for the Spurs. The 2 play off one another very well. Right here we see Vassell discovering Wembanyam on the lob after a drive to the rim.
Vassell had a powerful recreation as properly. He completed with 27 factors on 10-17 capturing from the sphere. Right here we see him get to this baseline mid-range leap shot that has develop into a go-to for him.
Vassell has gotten a lot better at attending to the basket. He’s aggressive getting downhill when he can’t get a clear have a look at a jumper. That aggressiveness has unlocked his recreation as a three-level scorer and made him a potent risk subsequent to Wembanyama.
How essential was Tre Jones down the stretch? Jones made two large performs within the ultimate moments to maintain the Spurs within the recreation, and completed with 16 factors, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and a couple of steals. His pestering protection late within the recreation helped the Spurs stick round.
Jones three-point capturing has improved a lot {that a} nook three from the purpose guard is an efficient shot for the Spurs. After an exhilarating steal from Sochan, Jones hit the clutch three to tie the sport. If it weren’t for Jackson Jr.’s recreation winner, this may have been the shot of the night time.
The Spurs will probably be again at it once more on Saturday night time in opposition to the Phoenix Suns. They’ve had success in opposition to them this season, and can look to proceed that development in a bounce-back win.
Try full recreation highlights under.
