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 added 22 points in a 121-110 victory over the Houston Rockets on Friday night. This game marked the NBA Cup opener for both teams.
Key Performances
- Harrison Barnes scored the final four points of the game, including a pair of free throws and a breakaway dunk following a steal with 12 seconds left.
- Julian Champagnie contributed nine points in the fourth quarter and made 6 of 13 three-pointers overall. He also made a critical offensive rebound and secured a loose ball on defense late in the game.
- Victor Wembanyama faced intense defense from Houston, with guards Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard aggressively pushing him out of position in the first half. He scored four points on 2-for-6 shooting in the opening quarters.
Rockets' Efforts and Challenges
Kevin Durant scored 24 points, and Alperen Sengun added 22 for Houston. The victory ended the Rockets' five-game winning streak.
Game Momentum
San Antonio finished the first half on a 12-0 run, capitalizing on five turnovers by Houston in the final two minutes. During the run, Devin Vassell hit a three-pointer and Stephon Castle completed a three-point play. The run began after Durant committed his third personal foul for shoving Barnes to the court.
"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 Spurs showed resilience and control despite the Rockets' defensive pressure on Wembanyama, securing an important win in their NBA Cup opener.
Summary: The Spurs overcame aggressive defense and a strong Rockets lineup, led by Barnes, Champagnie, and Wembanyama, to win the NBA Cup opener 121-110, halting Houston's five-game win streak.