The San Antonio Spurs’ loss to the Charlotte Hornets earlier within the season could have been one of the crucial disappointing losses of the 12 months… not less than if you happen to ask Victor Wembanyama.
After the Spurs’ 115-102 win over Charlotte on their residence court docket, Wembanyama advised the Amazon Prime crew that the loss to the Hornets was his “worst defensive recreation.” It was clear that this recreation was an opportunity to make amends. Wembanyama dominated in response.
The star massive man had 32 factors, 12 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals, and 4 blocks. The Hornets scored simply 30 factors within the paint as a result of Wembanyama had it virtually fully walled off. Whereas not an official stat, Charlotte could have had essentially the most “nopes” I’ve seen in opposition to the Spurs within the Wemby period, fully abandoning drives a number of instances in the identical possession. On the opposite finish, there wasn’t a single Hornet who may decelerate Wembanyama. He may get a basket nearly any time he wished.
This recreation, regardless of being a considerably inconsequential Saturday matinee, reveals loads about Wembanyama and the Spurs’ general mentality. They wish to win, and after they don’t, they take it personally. It was clear from the leap that the crew remembered the sting of the sooner loss to Charlotte. That’s the mentality of a crew able to compete. Once they lose a playoff recreation (and relaxation assured, they’ll), they’ll both let it rattle them or get motivated to win the subsequent one. Saturday’s win reveals that Wembanyama and his teammates have a profitable mentality.
