SAN ANTONIO – Anthony Davis led the Los Angeles Lakers to a narrow 122-119 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night, scoring 37 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. The win extended the Spurs’ franchise-record losing streak to 18 games, despite a standout performance from rookie Victor Wembanyama.
Wembanyama, making waves in his first NBA season, recorded 30 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocks. His achievement marks the first time since Spurs legend Tim Duncan in 1998 that a rookie has posted such impressive stats in a game. Wembanyama, reflecting on his performance, emphasized the need for a team victory to give true value to his personal achievements.
The Lakers played without LeBron James, sidelined due to a left calf injury. Anthony Davis also had a scare early in the game when he rolled his left ankle but chose to continue playing, citing his significant impact on the team’s chances of winning.
Despite trailing by 20 points early in the fourth quarter, the Spurs mounted a remarkable comeback, outscoring the Lakers 45-30 in the final quarter. Wembanyama’s late-game heroics, including a 3-pointer over Davis, brought the Spurs within striking distance, cutting the Lakers’ lead to just one point in the closing moments.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham praised Wembanyama’s relentless competitiveness and impact in the game’s critical moments. However, Wembanyama fouled out for the first time in his career, a crucial moment that influenced the game’s outcome. Reflecting on the Spurs’ performance, Wembanyama stressed the importance of playing hard and smart throughout the game.
For the Spurs, Keldon Johnson added 28 points, and Malaki Branham contributed 16. On the Lakers’ side, Taurean Prince scored 17 points, Austin Reaves had 15, and D’Angelo Russell posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 assists.
The game was not without its dramatic moments. Davis’ early ankle injury and subsequent decision to play through the pain added a layer of intrigue. His first-half performance was particularly dominant, including a powerful dunk over Wembanyama.
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich critiqued his team’s sloppy play in the first half but commended their fighting spirit in the second. He expressed interest in seeing how the team’s improved execution would carry over into their next game.
The Spurs and Lakers are set for a rematch on Friday, with both teams looking to build on their respective performances from this closely contested matchup.
