Jalen Brunson calmly converted the game-changing free throw as the New York Knicks survived a dramatic late comeback from the San Antonio Spurs to secure a 105-104 victory on Friday, taking a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals. The Spurs now face a difficult challenge as the series moves to New York for Games 3 and 4. Victor Wembanyama committed a costly turnover in the closing moments before missing a potential game-winning jumper with two seconds remaining. Till now, no team in NBA history has come back to win the Finals after losing the first two games at home.&nbsp;Only the 1993 Chicago Bulls and the 1995 Houston Rockets previously opened the Finals with two road victories and both teams ultimately captured the championship.&nbsp;The Knicks extended their playoff winning streak to 13 games, the second-longest postseason run ever and and are now close to clinching their first NBA title since 1973.They will have an opportunity to continue their push in front of a home crowd at Madison Square Garden, where US President Donald Trump is expected to attend Monday’s game.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/norway-chess-2026-r-praggnanandhaa-scripts-history-becomes-first-indian-champion-in-tournament-history-1780716711063">Norway Chess 2026: R Praggnanandhaa scripts history, becomes first Indian champion in tournament history</a>&nbsp;Despite controlling much of the contest, New York were forced to withstand a strong fourth-quarter comeback as San Antonio wiped out a 14-point deficit with a 14-0 run, setting up a tense finish.&nbsp;After a slow first half, Victor Wembanyama scored 22 of his 29 points in the second half. His three-point play with 57.3 seconds left gave the Spurs a 104-102 lead, their first since the second quarter.&nbsp;The game was level at 104-104 with 9.5 seconds remaining when Wembanyama got a rebound after Brunson missed a shot, but he then threw a loose pass that hit his teammate Stephon Castle, causing a turnover.&nbsp;Brunson quickly recovered the loose ball, drew a foul and made one of two free throws to restore New York’s lead.&nbsp;San Antonio had one last chance, coming out of a time out with 7.5 seconds left. They got the ball to their superstar but his jump shot clanged off the rim.&nbsp;"I threw that one away," 22-year-old Wembanyama said. "I messed up. We didn't play great as a team. We needed to win that game."&nbsp;Karl-Anthony Towns, who led the Knicks with 21 points and 13 rebounds admitted he was praying when Wembanyama put the Spurs' final attempt.&nbsp;"A great player got a great shot, and it just didn't go in," Towns said.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

The New York Knicks have become only the third team in history to win the first two games of an NBA Finals series on the road, joining the Chicago Bulls (1993) and Houston Rockets (1995).

Jalen Brunson calmly converted the game-changing free throw as the New York Knicks survived a dramatic late comeback from the San Antonio Spurs to secure a 105-104 victory on Friday, taking a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals. The Spurs now face a difficult challenge as the series moves to New York for Games 3 and 4. Victor Wembanyama committed a costly turnover in the closing moments before missing a potential game-winning jumper with two seconds remaining. Till now, no team in NBA history has come back to win the Finals after losing the first two games at home. Only the 1993 Chicago Bulls and the 1995 Houston Rockets previously opened the Finals with two road victories and both teams ultimately captured the championship. The Knicks extended their playoff winning streak to 13 games, the second-longest postseason run ever and and are now close to clinching their first NBA title since 1973. They will have an opportunity to continue their push in front of a home crowd at Madison Square Garden, where US President Donald Trump is expected to attend Monday’s game. Also Read - Norway Chess 2026: R Praggnanandhaa scripts history, becomes first Indian champion in tournament history Despite controlling much of the contest, New York were forced to withstand a strong fourth-quarter comeback as San Antonio wiped out a 14-point deficit with a 14-0 run, setting up a tense finish. After a slow first half, Victor Wembanyama scored 22 of his 29 points in the second half. His three-point play with 57.3 seconds left gave the Spurs a 104-102 lead, their first since the second quarter. The game was level at 104-104 with 9.5 seconds remaining when Wembanyama got a rebound after Brunson missed a shot, but he then threw a loose pass that hit his teammate Stephon Castle, causing a turnover. Brunson quickly recovered the loose ball, drew a foul and made one of two free throws to restore New York’s lead. San Antonio had one last chance, coming out of a time out with 7.5 seconds left. They got the ball to their superstar but his jump shot clanged off the rim. "I threw that one away," 22-year-old Wembanyama said. "I messed up. We didn't play great as a team. We needed to win that game." Karl-Anthony Towns, who led the Knicks with 21 points and 13 rebounds admitted he was praying when Wembanyama put the Spurs' final attempt. "A great player got a great shot, and it just didn't go in," Towns said. With inputs from agencies

The New York Knicks have become only the third team in history to win the first two games of an NBA Finals series on the road, joining the Chicago Bulls (1993) and Houston Rockets (1995).

New York Knicks edge San Antonio Spurs 105-104 to take 2-0 lead in NBA Finals

San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama was ejected for elbowing Minnesota Timberwolves' Naz Reid in the face during Game 4 of the best-of-seven conference semis in NBA Playoffs on Sunday (May 10). The Timberwolves, however, beat the Spurs 114-109 to bring the series level at 2-2 with three more games left. The moment happened in the second of the four quarters and the crowd got behind the Wolves with the shouts of 'kick him out' against 7 feet 4 inches tall Wembanyama as the referees reviewed the video of the incident.<h2>Why was Wembanyama ejected from Game 4 against Wolves?</h2>With nearly four minutes left in the second quarter of the game, Wembanyama was inside the paint as one of the Spurs players tried a three-pointer from the corner. The shot did not go through and Wembanyama tried to collect the rebound on the missed three-pointer. As soon as Wembanyama got the hold of the ball he was swarmed by the Wolves including and the Spurs player's elbow hit Reid on the neck and the jaw. Have a look at the video below:

The players from both the teams, however, kept the cool and did not clear the benches, allowing the referees to take care of the situation. Just the game officials reviewed the footage of the incident, the penalty on Wembanyama was upgraded to Flagrant 2 for excessive contact above the neck and he was ejected automatically.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-beat-real-madrid-in-el-clasico-to-win-la-liga-1778472122529">Barcelona beat Real Madrid in El Clasico to win La Liga</a>Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, however, was not happy with the decision but did not condone Wembanyama's behaviour either. "He’s going to have to protect himself if [the referees] are not … It’s disgusting. I just think that the amount of physicality that people play with him at some level you have to protect yourself," the head coach said after the game.<h2>What next for Wembanyama and the Spurs?</h2>The league will review Wembanayama's actions before the next game which is scheduled on Tuesday (May 12). While the NBA can impose fine or even suspend the Spurs' player, coach Johnson says: "There was zero intent. I think it would be ridiculous [to punish him further]."

Spurs' Wembanyama was ejected to excessive contact above neck after elbowing Wolves' Naz Reid. Minnesota won the Game 4, bringing series to a level 2-2 with Game 5 set for Tuesday (May 12).

San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama was ejected for elbowing Minnesota Timberwolves' Naz Reid in the face during Game 4 of the best-of-seven conference semis in NBA Playoffs on Sunday (May 10). The Timberwolves, however, beat the Spurs 114-109 to bring the series level at 2-2 with three more games left. The moment happened in the second of the four quarters and the crowd got behind the Wolves with the shouts of 'kick him out' against 7 feet 4 inches tall Wembanyama as the referees reviewed the video of the incident. Why was Wembanyama ejected from Game 4 against Wolves? With nearly four minutes left in the second quarter of the game, Wembanyama was inside the paint as one of the Spurs players tried a three-pointer from the corner. The shot did not go through and Wembanyama tried to collect the rebound on the missed three-pointer. As soon as Wembanyama got the hold of the ball he was swarmed by the Wolves including and the Spurs player's elbow hit Reid on the neck and the jaw. Have a look at the video below:

Spurs' Wembanyama was ejected to excessive contact above neck after elbowing Wolves' Naz Reid. Minnesota won the Game 4, bringing series to a level 2-2 with Game 5 set for Tuesday (May 12).

NBA Playoffs: Spurs' Wembanyama ejected for elbowing Wolves' Naz Reid in Game 4 of conference semis - WATCH

The Minnesota Timberwolves won the first game of conference semi-final series in NBA playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday (May 5) but questioned Victor Wembanyama's blocking. The Spurs star managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102. &nbsp;Wolves coach Chris Finch also questioned refereeing in the game and so did Wembanyama's French teammate Rudy Gobert who plays for Minnesota in the NBA.<h2>Were Wembanyama's blocks legit vs Wolves?</h2>The Wolves trailed in two of the first three quarters of the game against the Spurs but managed to outscore San Antonio in the final 12 minutes to come out triumphant. That would not have been the case if, according to Minnesota coach Finch, Wembanyama's blocks were properly judged.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-invites-iran-to-headquarters-by-may-20-to-prepare-for-world-cup-north-america-usa-donald-trump-israel-1777987807215">FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’</a>"To me, it’s a little alarming that none of them were called. Here’s a generational shot blocker … and there’s no heightened awareness that these blocks could be goaltends? The third possession of the game is a goaltend. A clear, obvious one. So let’s just say there were four [violations], that’s eight points. You know the value of eight points in an NBA game? It’s massive. That means 33% of his blocks were goaltending uncalled. If I were to give you a 33% raise, you’d like that, right? It’s a huge number," said Finch after the narrow win.Gobert also sided with his coach against his France teammate and said: "He fouled me on the first one. But if you look at them, probably three or four [goaltends]."<h2>How Timberwolves managed to win?</h2>Minnesota scored 24 points in 1Q against Spurs' 23. In the next two quarters, the Timberwolves managed 21 and 24, respectively and the Spurs scored 22 and 27 points. Trailing by three points going into the final 12 minutes, Minnesota scored 35 points against San Antonio's 30 and won the game by two points.For Spurs, Julian Champagnie and Stephon Castle scored 17 points each while Dylan Harper managed 18 and Wembanyama dropped 11 to go with his 12 blocks. For Minnesota, Julius Randle scored 21 points, Anthony Edwards scored 18 and Jaden McDaniels as well as Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 16 each.

Spurs' Wembanyama managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102. 

The Minnesota Timberwolves won the first game of conference semi-final series in NBA playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday (May 5) but questioned Victor Wembanyama's blocking. The Spurs star managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102. Wolves coach Chris Finch also questioned refereeing in the game and so did Wembanyama's French teammate Rudy Gobert who plays for Minnesota in the NBA. Were Wembanyama's blocks legit vs Wolves? The Wolves trailed in two of the first three quarters of the game against the Spurs but managed to outscore San Antonio in the final 12 minutes to come out triumphant. That would not have been the case if, according to Minnesota coach Finch, Wembanyama's blocks were properly judged. Also Read - FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’ "To me, it’s a little alarming that none of them were called. Here’s a generational shot blocker … and there’s no heightened awareness that these blocks could be goaltends? The third possession of the game is a goaltend. A clear, obvious one. So let’s just say there were four [violations], that’s eight points. You know the value of eight points in an NBA game? It’s massive. That means 33% of his blocks were goaltending uncalled. If I were to give you a 33% raise, you’d like that, right? It’s a huge number," said Finch after the narrow win. Gobert also sided with his coach against his France teammate and said: "He fouled me on the first one. But if you look at them, probably three or four [goaltends]." How Timberwolves managed to win? Minnesota scored 24 points in 1Q against Spurs' 23. In the next two quarters, the Timberwolves managed 21 and 24, respectively and the Spurs scored 22 and 27 points. Trailing by three points going into the final 12 minutes, Minnesota scored 35 points against San Antonio's 30 and won the game by two points. For Spurs, Julian Champagnie and Stephon Castle scored 17 points each while Dylan Harper managed 18 and Wembanyama dropped 11 to go with his 12 blocks. For Minnesota, Julius Randle scored 21 points, Anthony Edwards scored 18 and Jaden McDaniels as well as Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 16 each.

Spurs' Wembanyama managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of conference semis best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102.&nbsp;

NBA Playoffs | 'Goaltending uncalled': Wolves question Wembanyama's record 12 blocks in Game 1 of conference semis

The San Antonio Spurs, with Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox leading the way, erased a 19-point deficit to beat the Portland Trail Blazers 114-93 and take a commanding 3-1 lead in their NBA playoff series on Sunday. Wembanyama, back after missing game three because of a concussion he sustained in game two, scored 27 points with 11 rebounds, three assists, four steals and seven blocked shots."I had lots of emotions in me before the game, obviously," said the 22-year-old French superstar, already named the 2026 NBA Defensive Player of the Year and in the running for Most Valuable Player.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-italy-to-replace-iran-special-envoy-to-us-president-trump-suggests-swap-to-fifa-1776923026262">Football WC| Italy to replace Iran? Special envoy to Trump suggests swap to FIFA</a>"Excitement, frustration, so I let it all out tonight," said Wembanyama, who said the Spurs were "amazing" after his injury.But he was "unhappy" with how the protocol -- which requires a gradual return to basketball activity monitored by medical staff -- was handled by other parties involved."I've been really healthy, starting on day one after the injury," he said.Fox led all scorers with 28 points, and the Spurs out-scored the Trail Blazers 73-35 in the second half to move within one win of advancing to the Western Conference semi-finals.The Spurs, seeded second in the West, can clinch the best-of-seven series when they host game five on Tuesday."When we got in that hole, we just had to figure out a way to play the right way," Fox said. "Not necessarily play better. If you don't make shots, it is what it is ... but the way that we got down was, we felt like, all our fault. Third quarter we played the right way."We kept them out of the paint and that's why we were able to get back in this game."Deni Avdija scored 26 points and Jrue Holiday added 20 for the Trail Blazers, but they were the only Portland starters who scored in the second half.In Toronto, Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram scored 23 points apiece as the Raptors held off the Cleveland Cavaliers 93-89 to knot their Eastern Conference series at 2-2.The Raptors trailed by five with 2:10 left to play but powered to the lead with a 9-0 scoring burst and held on for the win."We want it so bad," Barnes, who added nine rebounds and six assists, told broadcaster ESPN. "We're hungry. We're fighting."Both teams struggled offensively, the Raptors enduring a particularly dismal day from three-point range, making just four of 30 attempts from beyond the arc.Donovan Mitchell scored 20 points to lead the Cavaliers and James Harden added 19, but Mitchell missed two attempts in the final 30 seconds as Barnes made six free throws down the stretch.The series now shifts to Cleveland for game five on Wednesday. The home team has won every game so far.

Wembanyama, back after missing game three because of a concussion he sustained in game two, scored 27 points with 11 rebounds, three assists, four steals and seven blocked shots.

The San Antonio Spurs, with Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox leading the way, erased a 19-point deficit to beat the Portland Trail Blazers 114-93 and take a commanding 3-1 lead in their NBA playoff series on Sunday. Wembanyama, back after missing game three because of a concussion he sustained in game two, scored 27 points with 11 rebounds, three assists, four steals and seven blocked shots. "I had lots of emotions in me before the game, obviously," said the 22-year-old French superstar, already named the 2026 NBA Defensive Player of the Year and in the running for Most Valuable Player. Also Read - Football WC| Italy to replace Iran? Special envoy to Trump suggests swap to FIFA "Excitement, frustration, so I let it all out tonight," said Wembanyama, who said the Spurs were "amazing" after his injury. But he was "unhappy" with how the protocol -- which requires a gradual return to basketball activity monitored by medical staff -- was handled by other parties involved. "I've been really healthy, starting on day one after the injury," he said. Fox led all scorers with 28 points, and the Spurs out-scored the Trail Blazers 73-35 in the second half to move within one win of advancing to the Western Conference semi-finals. The Spurs, seeded second in the West, can clinch the best-of-seven series when they host game five on Tuesday. "When we got in that hole, we just had to figure out a way to play the right way," Fox said. "Not necessarily play better. If you don't make shots, it is what it is ... but the way that we got down was, we felt like, all our fault. Third quarter we played the right way. "We kept them out of the paint and that's why we were able to get back in this game." Deni Avdija scored 26 points and Jrue Holiday added 20 for the Trail Blazers, but they were the only Portland starters who scored in the second half. In Toronto, Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram scored 23 points apiece as the Raptors held off the Cleveland Cavaliers 93-89 to knot their Eastern Conference series at 2-2. The Raptors trailed by five with 2:10 left to play but powered to the lead with a 9-0 scoring burst and held on for the win. "We want it so bad," Barnes, who added nine rebounds and six assists, told broadcaster ESPN. "We're hungry. We're fighting." Both teams struggled offensively, the Raptors enduring a particularly dismal day from three-point range, making just four of 30 attempts from beyond the arc. Donovan Mitchell scored 20 points to lead the Cavaliers and James Harden added 19, but Mitchell missed two attempts in the final 30 seconds as Barnes made six free throws down the stretch. The series now shifts to Cleveland for game five on Wednesday. The home team has won every game so far.

Wembanyama, back after missing game three because of a concussion he sustained in game two, scored 27 points with 11 rebounds, three assists, four steals and seven blocked shots.

NBA: Wembanyama returns as Spurs take 3-1 lead against Trail Blazers in come-from-behind win

Victor Wembanyama will miss San Antonio's NBA game on Friday at Indiana after suffering a hyper-extended left knee in a Spurs victory over New York, according to multiple reports on Thursday.&nbsp;ESPN and the San Antonio Express-News reported that the 21-year-old French star did not make the trip to Indianapolis and will receive more care in Texas despite an MRI on Thursday that showed no ligament damage.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Wembanyama, who turns 22 on Sunday, will be listed as questionable for Saturday's home game against Portland, ESPN reported. The next Spurs game after that is Tuesday at Memphis.&nbsp;Wembanyama was injured in San Antonio's 134-132 home victory over New York on Wednesday.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The Spurs are 24-9 and rank second in the Western Conference, 4.5 games back of NBA-best Oklahoma City, and third overall in the league behind the Thunder and Detroit.&nbsp;Wembanyama is averaging 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.9 blocked shots a game in 21 appearances this season.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Victor Wembanyama, who turns 22 on Sunday, will be listed as questionable for Saturday's home game against Portland, ESPN reported. The next Spurs game after that is Tuesday at Memphis.

Victor Wembanyama will miss San Antonio's NBA game on Friday at Indiana after suffering a hyper-extended left knee in a Spurs victory over New York, according to multiple reports on Thursday. ESPN and the San Antonio Express-News reported that the 21-year-old French star did not make the trip to Indianapolis and will receive more care in Texas despite an MRI on Thursday that showed no ligament damage. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Wembanyama, who turns 22 on Sunday, will be listed as questionable for Saturday's home game against Portland, ESPN reported. The next Spurs game after that is Tuesday at Memphis. Wembanyama was injured in San Antonio's 134-132 home victory over New York on Wednesday. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The Spurs are 24-9 and rank second in the Western Conference, 4.5 games back of NBA-best Oklahoma City, and third overall in the league behind the Thunder and Detroit. Wembanyama is averaging 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.9 blocked shots a game in 21 appearances this season. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Victor Wembanyama, who turns 22 on Sunday, will be listed as questionable for Saturday's home game against Portland, ESPN reported. The next Spurs game after that is Tuesday at Memphis.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama to miss Spurs' game Friday at Indiana - Report

Julian Champagnie rattled in 11 three-pointers and Victor Wembanyama scored 31 points as the San Antonio Spurs came from behind to defeat the New York Knicks 134-132 in a New Year's Eve thriller on Wednesday.&nbsp;San Antonio, beaten by the Knicks in the NBA Cup final two weeks ago, avenged that loss in sensational fashion after clawing their way back from a 19-point second quarter deficit to score a superb win.&nbsp;French prodigy Wembanyama was instrumental in the victory, leading a determined fightback that included 31 points and 13 rebounds before he exited with a leg injury early in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;Wembanyama later returned to sit on the bench and celebrated with teammates as the Spurs closed out a roller coaster victory that sees them improve to 24-9 and remain second in the Western Conference.&nbsp;While Wembanyama played a crucial role in the comeback win, Champagnie provided the offensive spark, unleashing an incredible three-point barrage to finishing with 36 points.&nbsp;Champagnie's three-point blitz included four threes in the fourth quarter as San Antonio drew level before pulling clear.&nbsp;"It feels great man -- just go out there and do my job," Champagnie said afterwards. "That's all I can do...I was just trying to shoot the basketball."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;A crowd of 18,602 at San Antonio's Frost Bank Center had been subdued earlier in the fourth quarter when Wembanyama hobbled off the court following an awkward landing from a rebound.&nbsp;Wembanyama though later said he expected to make a quick recovery from what he called a left knee hyper-extension.&nbsp;"My body's feeling good, just sore," Wembanyama said. "I'm very confident, optimistic."I expect to be back next game -- I don't know that (the team) expects," he added.&nbsp;Jalen Brunson led the Knicks scoring with 29 points, with Karl-Anthony Towns finishing with 20.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Magical Curry</h2>In other games on Wednesday, the Golden State Warriors maintained their impressive recent run of form with a 132-125 road win over the Charlotte Hornets.&nbsp;Stephen Curry, playing in front of his hometown fans, led the Golden State scoring with 26 points including five three-pointers as the Warriors bagged their fifth victory from their last six games to improve to 18-16 in the Western Conference standings.&nbsp;Jimmy Butler and Brandin Podziemski backed Curry with 19 points apiece.&nbsp;Curry, &nbsp;who had been serenaded with chants of "MVP" during a road game in Brooklyn on Monday, was given a warm reception by a record Charlotte crowd of 19.685 fans.&nbsp;"It never ceases to amaze me the support he has everywhere," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said of Curry. "It makes sense given who he is, what he's accomplished, what kind of human being he is...It's a sign of how much Steph impacts people; there's something magical about him."&nbsp;The Oklahoma City Thunder cruised to a 124-95 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 30 points.&nbsp;In other results, the Atlanta Hawks thumped the Minnesota Timberwolves 126-102 thanks to a 34-point display from Jalen Johnson while the Orlando Magic squeezed past the Indiana Pacers 112-110 after 29 points from Paolo Banchero.&nbsp;In Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell outdueled Devin Booker to lead the Cavaliers to a 129-113 blowout over the Phoenix Suns. Mitchell scored 34 points with 10 rebounds and seven assists while Booker finished with 32 points in a losing effort.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

San Antonio, beaten by the Knicks in the NBA Cup final two weeks ago, avenged that loss in sensational fashion after clawing their way back from a 19-point second quarter deficit to score a superb win.

Julian Champagnie rattled in 11 three-pointers and Victor Wembanyama scored 31 points as the San Antonio Spurs came from behind to defeat the New York Knicks 134-132 in a New Year's Eve thriller on Wednesday. San Antonio, beaten by the Knicks in the NBA Cup final two weeks ago, avenged that loss in sensational fashion after clawing their way back from a 19-point second quarter deficit to score a superb win. French prodigy Wembanyama was instrumental in the victory, leading a determined fightback that included 31 points and 13 rebounds before he exited with a leg injury early in the fourth quarter. Wembanyama later returned to sit on the bench and celebrated with teammates as the Spurs closed out a roller coaster victory that sees them improve to 24-9 and remain second in the Western Conference. While Wembanyama played a crucial role in the comeback win, Champagnie provided the offensive spark, unleashing an incredible three-point barrage to finishing with 36 points. Champagnie's three-point blitz included four threes in the fourth quarter as San Antonio drew level before pulling clear. "It feels great man -- just go out there and do my job," Champagnie said afterwards. "That's all I can do...I was just trying to shoot the basketball." ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes A crowd of 18,602 at San Antonio's Frost Bank Center had been subdued earlier in the fourth quarter when Wembanyama hobbled off the court following an awkward landing from a rebound. Wembanyama though later said he expected to make a quick recovery from what he called a left knee hyper-extension. "My body's feeling good, just sore," Wembanyama said. "I'm very confident, optimistic. "I expect to be back next game -- I don't know that (the team) expects," he added. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks scoring with 29 points, with Karl-Anthony Towns finishing with 20. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Magical Curry In other games on Wednesday, the Golden State Warriors maintained their impressive recent run of form with a 132-125 road win over the Charlotte Hornets. Stephen Curry, playing in front of his hometown fans, led the Golden State scoring with 26 points including five three-pointers as the Warriors bagged their fifth victory from their last six games to improve to 18-16 in the Western Conference standings. Jimmy Butler and Brandin Podziemski backed Curry with 19 points apiece. Curry, who had been serenaded with chants of "MVP" during a road game in Brooklyn on Monday, was given a warm reception by a record Charlotte crowd of 19.685 fans. "It never ceases to amaze me the support he has everywhere," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said of Curry. "It makes sense given who he is, what he's accomplished, what kind of human being he is...It's a sign of how much Steph impacts people; there's something magical about him." The Oklahoma City Thunder cruised to a 124-95 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 30 points. In other results, the Atlanta Hawks thumped the Minnesota Timberwolves 126-102 thanks to a 34-point display from Jalen Johnson while the Orlando Magic squeezed past the Indiana Pacers 112-110 after 29 points from Paolo Banchero. In Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell outdueled Devin Booker to lead the Cavaliers to a 129-113 blowout over the Phoenix Suns. Mitchell scored 34 points with 10 rebounds and seven assists while Booker finished with 32 points in a losing effort. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

San Antonio, beaten by the Knicks in the NBA Cup final two weeks ago, avenged that loss in sensational fashion after clawing their way back from a 19-point second quarter deficit to score a superb win.

NBA: Champagnie, Wembanyama lead Spurs comeback in Knicks thriller

Reigning champions Oklahoma City have the NBA's best record, but they can't find a way to defeat San Antonio, with superstar Victor Wembanyama coming off the bench Thursday to help lift the Spurs to an emphatic 117-102 victory.&nbsp;De'Aaron Fox scored a game-high 29 points while Wembanyama had 19 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes and guard Stephon Castle added 19 points for the Spurs.&nbsp;After roaring to a 24-1 start, the Thunder have dropped four of their past six games -- three of those losses coming to the Spurs.&nbsp;Oklahoma City lost for the first time in 15 home games this season despite 22 points by reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.&nbsp;The Thunder sank their first seven shots to take an 18-12 lead but the Spurs closed the first quarter on an 11-0 run for a 41-36 edge and never looked back, San Antonio stretching the lead to 69-60 at halftime and 95-79 after three quarters.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Oklahoma City rallied with a 9-2 start to the fourth quarter, but never threatened the Spurs, who improved to 23-7, second in the Western Conference behind the Thunder at 26-5.&nbsp;The Spurs have not reached the playoffs since 2019 and have not won a playoff series since 2017.&nbsp;Isaiah Hartenstein had 13 points and 12 rebounds for Oklahoma City while Chet Holmgren added 10 points and 12 rebounds.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;At New York, Jalen Brunson scored 34 points to lead the host Knicks over Cleveland 126-124 in a Christmas Day thriller.&nbsp;The Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell's 34 points, grabbed a 103-86 lead with 10:25 remaining but New York closed on a 40-21 run to seize the victory.&nbsp;Benson, who hit 6-of-12 from three-point range, lifted the Knicks ahead for good at 121-119 on a 3-pointer with 65 seconds remaining.&nbsp;It was Benson's 90th 30-point game as a Knick, a total eclipsed only by Patrick Ewing and Carmelo Anthony.&nbsp;Jordan Clarkson added 25 points off the bench for New York.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

De'Aaron Fox scored a game-high 29 points while Victor Wembanyama had 19 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes and guard Stephon Castle added 19 points for the Spurs.

Reigning champions Oklahoma City have the NBA's best record, but they can't find a way to defeat San Antonio, with superstar Victor Wembanyama coming off the bench Thursday to help lift the Spurs to an emphatic 117-102 victory. De'Aaron Fox scored a game-high 29 points while Wembanyama had 19 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes and guard Stephon Castle added 19 points for the Spurs. After roaring to a 24-1 start, the Thunder have dropped four of their past six games -- three of those losses coming to the Spurs. Oklahoma City lost for the first time in 15 home games this season despite 22 points by reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder sank their first seven shots to take an 18-12 lead but the Spurs closed the first quarter on an 11-0 run for a 41-36 edge and never looked back, San Antonio stretching the lead to 69-60 at halftime and 95-79 after three quarters. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Oklahoma City rallied with a 9-2 start to the fourth quarter, but never threatened the Spurs, who improved to 23-7, second in the Western Conference behind the Thunder at 26-5. The Spurs have not reached the playoffs since 2019 and have not won a playoff series since 2017. Isaiah Hartenstein had 13 points and 12 rebounds for Oklahoma City while Chet Holmgren added 10 points and 12 rebounds. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes At New York, Jalen Brunson scored 34 points to lead the host Knicks over Cleveland 126-124 in a Christmas Day thriller. The Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell's 34 points, grabbed a 103-86 lead with 10:25 remaining but New York closed on a 40-21 run to seize the victory. Benson, who hit 6-of-12 from three-point range, lifted the Knicks ahead for good at 121-119 on a 3-pointer with 65 seconds remaining. It was Benson's 90th 30-point game as a Knick, a total eclipsed only by Patrick Ewing and Carmelo Anthony. Jordan Clarkson added 25 points off the bench for New York. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

De'Aaron Fox scored a game-high 29 points while Victor Wembanyama had 19 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes and guard Stephon Castle added 19 points for the Spurs.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama stars as San Antonio Spurs edge reigning champions Oklahoma City

Victor Wembanyama made a dazzling return from injury with 22 points as the San Antonio Spurs powered to an upset 111-109 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder to reach the NBA Cup final on Saturday. French prodigy Wembanyama -- playing after a 12-game absence following a month-long injury layoff -- led a superb performance from the Spurs to send Oklahoma City crashing to just their second defeat of the season.&nbsp;Reigning NBA champions Oklahoma City, who had gone into the game on the back of a 16-game winning streak, looked to be surging into Tuesday's final against the New York Knicks after going 16 points up in the second quarter. But the towering 7ft 4in (2.24m) Wembanyama led a relentless fightback from San Antonio, dominating at both ends of the court, to set up a pulsating victory.&nbsp;Wembanyama started on the bench and sat out the first quarter, but made a huge impact when he was brought in for the second. The 21-year-old's 22 points, nine rebounds and two blocks came from just 21 minutes on court.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-york-knicks-reach-maiden-nba-cup-final-as-brunson-sinks-orlando-magic-1765684217480">New York Knicks reach maiden NBA Cup Final as Brunson sinks Magic</a>&nbsp;"I knew I had limited minutes so I had to make the most out of it," Wembanyama said. "Winning against a team like this, it might seem like it's just a game but it's a collective effort and it's not an easy thing.&nbsp;"It's only their second loss of the season. It means something."&nbsp;Wembanyama was one of four San Antonio players to finish with double figures, with Devin Vassell scoring 23, and Stephon Castle and De'Aaron Fox adding 22 apiece.&nbsp;"There were three or four guys who scored over 20 in our team. It just shows that everybody was involved," said Wembanyama. "It says a lot. And it says a lot about where this team is going to be in the future," he said.&nbsp;"This NBA thing: one thing to understand is that it will test your limits. And right now I've just come off 12 games' rest, so I'm fresh."&nbsp;Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder scoring with 29 points, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren added 17 points each.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Wembanyama started on the bench and sat out the first quarter, but made a huge impact when he was brought in for the second.

Victor Wembanyama made a dazzling return from injury with 22 points as the San Antonio Spurs powered to an upset 111-109 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder to reach the NBA Cup final on Saturday. French prodigy Wembanyama -- playing after a 12-game absence following a month-long injury layoff -- led a superb performance from the Spurs to send Oklahoma City crashing to just their second defeat of the season. Reigning NBA champions Oklahoma City, who had gone into the game on the back of a 16-game winning streak, looked to be surging into Tuesday's final against the New York Knicks after going 16 points up in the second quarter. But the towering 7ft 4in (2.24m) Wembanyama led a relentless fightback from San Antonio, dominating at both ends of the court, to set up a pulsating victory. Wembanyama started on the bench and sat out the first quarter, but made a huge impact when he was brought in for the second. The 21-year-old's 22 points, nine rebounds and two blocks came from just 21 minutes on court. Also read | New York Knicks reach maiden NBA Cup Final as Brunson sinks Magic "I knew I had limited minutes so I had to make the most out of it," Wembanyama said. "Winning against a team like this, it might seem like it's just a game but it's a collective effort and it's not an easy thing. "It's only their second loss of the season. It means something." Wembanyama was one of four San Antonio players to finish with double figures, with Devin Vassell scoring 23, and Stephon Castle and De'Aaron Fox adding 22 apiece. "There were three or four guys who scored over 20 in our team. It just shows that everybody was involved," said Wembanyama. "It says a lot. And it says a lot about where this team is going to be in the future," he said. "This NBA thing: one thing to understand is that it will test your limits. And right now I've just come off 12 games' rest, so I'm fresh." Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder scoring with 29 points, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren added 17 points each. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Wembanyama started on the bench and sat out the first quarter, but made a huge impact when he was brought in for the second.

Victor Wembanyama dazzles as Spurs beat Thunder to reach NBA Cup Final

Victor Wembanyama scored 40 points in a sensational NBA return on Wednesday, leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 125-92 season-opening victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The 21-year-old French star hadn't played since he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder that required surgery in February. But he launched his third season with a dazzling display on both ends of the floor, adding 15 rebounds, a steal and three blocked shots. Already known for his combination of size and agility, Wembanyama showed off new strength and was virtually unstoppable at the rim. He connected on 15 of his 21 attempts, including seven of eight in the second half.&nbsp;"All dreams are allowed now," he told broadcaster ESPN. "I'm just glad to be back."&nbsp;He set a new Spurs franchise record for most points in a season opener, dominating his matchup with Dallas forward Anthony Davis, who led the Mavs with 22 points and 13 rebounds.&nbsp;San Antonio's Stephon Castle, who followed in Wembanyama's footsteps in winning Rookie of the Year honours last season, added 22 points.&nbsp;But it was a sometimes rocky NBA debut for Dallas's 18-year-old No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg, who had zero first-half points but finished with a respectable double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds.<h3>Edgecombe shines</h3>&nbsp;Philadelphia's third overall draft pick, VJ Edgecombe, made a stellar NBA debut, scoring 34 points with seven rebounds and three assists in the 76ers' 117-116 victory over the Celtics in Boston.&nbsp;Edgecombe's points were the most in an NBA debut since Wilt Chamberlain's 43 in 1959 and the third-most in a debut game ever.&nbsp;He broke Allen Iverson's franchise record for points in a debut of 30, his 14 first-quarter points breaking a record of 12 set by LeBron James in his debut game in 2003.&nbsp;"It's just having confidence," Edgecombe told NBC Sports Philadelphia. "My teammates keep passing me the ball, telling me to shoot it, so why not?"&nbsp;Edgecombe's heroics, coupled with 40 points from Tyrese Maxey, helped the 76ers erase a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit.&nbsp;The Celtics, with Jaylen Brown and Derrick White the only remaining starters from last season's 61-win team as Jayson Tatum recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon, had a final chance to seal the win, but Payton Pritchard's jump shot didn't fall.&nbsp;Philadelphia's oft-injured big man Joel Embiid, limited to 19 games last season, scored four points in just over 20 minutes on court.&nbsp;The New York Knicks opened the season under new coach Mike Brown with a 119-111 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a battle of teams expected to contend for the Eastern Conference title.&nbsp;OG Anunoby scored 24 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, and Jalen Brunson scored 23.&nbsp;Donovan Mitchell scored 21 of his 31 points in the third quarter as the Cavs erased a 15-point halftime deficit to take a one-point lead.&nbsp;But the Cavs, who had the best record in the East last season but fell to the Indiana Pacers in the conference semi-finals, couldn't keep the pressure on as they felt the absences of injured Darius Garland and Max Strus.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 21-year-old French star hadn't played since he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder that required surgery in February.

Victor Wembanyama scored 40 points in a sensational NBA return on Wednesday, leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 125-92 season-opening victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The 21-year-old French star hadn't played since he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder that required surgery in February. But he launched his third season with a dazzling display on both ends of the floor, adding 15 rebounds, a steal and three blocked shots. Already known for his combination of size and agility, Wembanyama showed off new strength and was virtually unstoppable at the rim. He connected on 15 of his 21 attempts, including seven of eight in the second half. "All dreams are allowed now," he told broadcaster ESPN. "I'm just glad to be back." He set a new Spurs franchise record for most points in a season opener, dominating his matchup with Dallas forward Anthony Davis, who led the Mavs with 22 points and 13 rebounds. San Antonio's Stephon Castle, who followed in Wembanyama's footsteps in winning Rookie of the Year honours last season, added 22 points. But it was a sometimes rocky NBA debut for Dallas's 18-year-old No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg, who had zero first-half points but finished with a respectable double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. Edgecombe shines Philadelphia's third overall draft pick, VJ Edgecombe, made a stellar NBA debut, scoring 34 points with seven rebounds and three assists in the 76ers' 117-116 victory over the Celtics in Boston. Edgecombe's points were the most in an NBA debut since Wilt Chamberlain's 43 in 1959 and the third-most in a debut game ever. He broke Allen Iverson's franchise record for points in a debut of 30, his 14 first-quarter points breaking a record of 12 set by LeBron James in his debut game in 2003. "It's just having confidence," Edgecombe told NBC Sports Philadelphia. "My teammates keep passing me the ball, telling me to shoot it, so why not?" Edgecombe's heroics, coupled with 40 points from Tyrese Maxey, helped the 76ers erase a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit. The Celtics, with Jaylen Brown and Derrick White the only remaining starters from last season's 61-win team as Jayson Tatum recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon, had a final chance to seal the win, but Payton Pritchard's jump shot didn't fall. Philadelphia's oft-injured big man Joel Embiid, limited to 19 games last season, scored four points in just over 20 minutes on court. The New York Knicks opened the season under new coach Mike Brown with a 119-111 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a battle of teams expected to contend for the Eastern Conference title. OG Anunoby scored 24 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, and Jalen Brunson scored 23. Donovan Mitchell scored 21 of his 31 points in the third quarter as the Cavs erased a 15-point halftime deficit to take a one-point lead. But the Cavs, who had the best record in the East last season but fell to the Indiana Pacers in the conference semi-finals, couldn't keep the pressure on as they felt the absences of injured Darius Garland and Max Strus. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 21-year-old French star hadn't played since he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder that required surgery in February.

San Antonio Spurs' Wembanyama scores 40 in triumphant NBA return

Victor Wembanyama became the fourth-youngest player to score 50 points in an NBA game when the 20-year-old Frenchman led the San Antonio Spurs to a 139-130 win over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday.

The first overall pick in last year's draft rattled up his career-high 50 points in just 26 minutes and ended the game with 18-29 shooting with eight three-pointers -- also a career high.

The Spurs center, whose previous highest-scoring game was 40, was at a loss to explain his incredible performance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-carlos-alcaraz-beats-andrey-rublev-to-open-account-at-atp-finals-casper-ruud-misses-last-four-chance-775996">Carlos Alcaraz beats Andrey Rublev to open account at ATP Finals, Casper Ruud misses last four chance</a>

"I'd love to tell you that you wake up a certain way or you feel really smooth during warm-ups, but at the end of the day, in NBA games we got one game every other day," he said. "So, every time we struggle to warm up, we have pain, you know, we sweat, we bleed on the court, so it's really a minute-to-minute thing, it comes to 48 minutes every game," he added.

It was the third straight game in which Wembanyama had hit six-plus three-pointers.

The three players who scored 50 points at a younger age than the Frenchman were Brandon Jennings, LeBron James and Devin Booker, all of whom were also aged 20.

The Spurs again won the game without head coach Gregg Popovich. The team said on Wednesday that he had suffered a mild stroke earlier this month but is expected to make a full recovery.

Wembanyama wasn't the only player to break the 50-point mark on Wednesday. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 59 as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Detroit Pistons 127-120 in overtime.

The Greek star shot 21 of 34 and had 14 rebounds and seven assists in what was the highest point performance by a player so far this season.

"As a leader I keep reminding guys, don't take moments for granted. No matter who plays we don't give up and always have to find ways to win the game," said Antetokounmpo.

<h2>Cavs roll on</h2>

The unbeaten Cleveland Cavaliers made it 13 straight wins in the NBA with a 114-106 victory at the Philadelphia 76ers.

With the win the Cavs became just the sixth team to start a season with a 13-0 record and the first since the Golden State Warriors in the 2015-16 season.

Darius Garland top-scored for Cleveland with 25 points while Donovan Mitchell put up 23 points along with nine assists and 13 rebounds.

Mitchell ended the game on fire, scoring 11 points in a 1:35 spell in the fourth quarter.

Cleveland trailed 54-48 at the half but turned it on in the third quarter. Yet it was a tight game until Mitchell made a 29-foot three-pointer with 2:52 remaining to open up a seven-point lead.

Mitchell conceded that the 13th game in 22 days had been a battle.

"We all fought. Biggest thing is, obviously, we played a lot of games and it's going to test you.

"The streak is going to test you. These games are going to test you.

"We kept pushing, just continued to fight, continued to battle and we all did a great job," he said.

Philadelphia's injury-plagued star center Joel Embiid, who made his first appearance of the season on Tuesday after nine games out with a knee issue, sat out the game and the 76ers were also without Paul George.

Rookie Jared McCain stepped up with 34 points for Philadelphia, who are 2-9 on the season.

The Boston Celtics continued their strong start to the season. Their 139-114 win at the Brooklyn Nets extended their record to 10-3.

Jayson Tatum put up 36 points, made 10 assists and grabbed eight rebounds as the reigning champion Celtics enjoyed a convincing victory.

After a defeat to Atlanta in the NBA Cup on Tuesday, the Celtics trailed by two after the first quarter but grabbed a five-point lead by the half and dominated from then on.

It was a strong all-round display from Boston with Jaylen Brown producing 24 points and 12 rebounds while Payton Pritchard claimed 23 points and had eight assists and six rebounds.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Victor Wembanyama became the fourth-youngest player to score 50 points in an NBA game when the 20-year-old Frenchman led the San Antonio Spurs to a 139-130 win over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday.

Victor Wembanyama became the fourth-youngest player to score 50 points in an NBA game when the 20-year-old Frenchman led the San Antonio Spurs to a 139-130 win over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday. The first overall pick in last year's draft rattled up his career-high 50 points in just 26 minutes and ended the game with 18-29 shooting with eight three-pointers -- also a career high. The Spurs center, whose previous highest-scoring game was 40, was at a loss to explain his incredible performance. ALSO READ: Carlos Alcaraz beats Andrey Rublev to open account at ATP Finals, Casper Ruud misses last four chance "I'd love to tell you that you wake up a certain way or you feel really smooth during warm-ups, but at the end of the day, in NBA games we got one game every other day," he said. "So, every time we struggle to warm up, we have pain, you know, we sweat, we bleed on the court, so it's really a minute-to-minute thing, it comes to 48 minutes every game," he added. It was the third straight game in which Wembanyama had hit six-plus three-pointers. The three players who scored 50 points at a younger age than the Frenchman were Brandon Jennings, LeBron James and Devin Booker, all of whom were also aged 20. The Spurs again won the game without head coach Gregg Popovich. The team said on Wednesday that he had suffered a mild stroke earlier this month but is expected to make a full recovery. Wembanyama wasn't the only player to break the 50-point mark on Wednesday. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 59 as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Detroit Pistons 127-120 in overtime. The Greek star shot 21 of 34 and had 14 rebounds and seven assists in what was the highest point performance by a player so far this season. "As a leader I keep reminding guys, don't take moments for granted. No matter who plays we don't give up and always have to find ways to win the game," said Antetokounmpo. Cavs roll on The unbeaten Cleveland Cavaliers made it 13 straight wins in the NBA with a 114-106 victory at the Philadelphia 76ers. With the win the Cavs became just the sixth team to start a season with a 13-0 record and the first since the Golden State Warriors in the 2015-16 season. Darius Garland top-scored for Cleveland with 25 points while Donovan Mitchell put up 23 points along with nine assists and 13 rebounds. Mitchell ended the game on fire, scoring 11 points in a 1:35 spell in the fourth quarter. Cleveland trailed 54-48 at the half but turned it on in the third quarter. Yet it was a tight game until Mitchell made a 29-foot three-pointer with 2:52 remaining to open up a seven-point lead. Mitchell conceded that the 13th game in 22 days had been a battle. "We all fought. Biggest thing is, obviously, we played a lot of games and it's going to test you. "The streak is going to test you. These games are going to test you. "We kept pushing, just continued to fight, continued to battle and we all did a great job," he said. Philadelphia's injury-plagued star center Joel Embiid, who made his first appearance of the season on Tuesday after nine games out with a knee issue, sat out the game and the 76ers were also without Paul George. Rookie Jared McCain stepped up with 34 points for Philadelphia, who are 2-9 on the season. The Boston Celtics continued their strong start to the season. Their 139-114 win at the Brooklyn Nets extended their record to 10-3. Jayson Tatum put up 36 points, made 10 assists and grabbed eight rebounds as the reigning champion Celtics enjoyed a convincing victory. After a defeat to Atlanta in the NBA Cup on Tuesday, the Celtics trailed by two after the first quarter but grabbed a five-point lead by the half and dominated from then on. It was a strong all-round display from Boston with Jaylen Brown producing 24 points and 12 rebounds while Payton Pritchard claimed 23 points and had eight assists and six rebounds. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama becomes fourth-youngest to score 50 points in Spurs' win over Washington

San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama has been named NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2023-24 season. Wembanyama got 99 votes in his favour to become the unanimous choice of the award. The second place went to Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren with 98 second-place votes while Charlotte Hornet's Brandon Miller came third.

He became only the sixth player in the last 40 years to be named as Rookie of the Year. Before him, Ralph Sampson (1984), David Robinson (1990), Blake Griffin (2011), Damian Lillard (2013), and Karl-Anthony Towns (2016) were named unanimous Rookie of the Year. He also joined Spurs' &nbsp;Robinson and Tim Duncan (1998) as the No. 1 pick to win the Rookie of the Year award.&nbsp;

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Wembanyama was the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He played in 71 games this season, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. Wembanyama also become only the second rookie in the history of NBA to lead the league in blocks since Alonzo Mourning and O'Neal in 1992-93. He registered 250 blocks to his name in the season.

"My goals were always to help my team as best as I could and get better as the year went on," Wembanyama said from San Antonio on TNT after the award.&nbsp;

"I knew in order to do this I had to be individually good on the court and dominant. So, it was a huge thing for me and a big thing to get. It's always been really important and I'm glad it's finally official," he added.

Wembanyama, however, has his eyes set on bigger awards, such as Defensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player as well.

"The most important to me is always winning," Wembanyama said to sports website ESPN. "You know, winning the chip clearly is what I wanna do. But, those individual awards tell a lot about the path a player takes throughout his career to get to those heights. They are important to me and I'm dedicated to winning some."

His team, however, had a poor season which saw them lose 60 of their 82 regular season games.

San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama has been named NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2023-24 season. Wembanyama got 99 votes in his favour to become the unanimous choice of the award.

San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama has been named NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2023-24 season. Wembanyama got 99 votes in his favour to become the unanimous choice of the award. The second place went to Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren with 98 second-place votes while Charlotte Hornet's Brandon Miller came third. He became only the sixth player in the last 40 years to be named as Rookie of the Year. Before him, Ralph Sampson (1984), David Robinson (1990), Blake Griffin (2011), Damian Lillard (2013), and Karl-Anthony Towns (2016) were named unanimous Rookie of the Year. He also joined Spurs' Robinson and Tim Duncan (1998) as the No. 1 pick to win the Rookie of the Year award. Also Read: Playoffs: Officials admit wrong decision on critical call during Knicks vs Pacers Game 1 Wembanyama was the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He played in 71 games this season, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. Wembanyama also become only the second rookie in the history of NBA to lead the league in blocks since Alonzo Mourning and O'Neal in 1992-93. He registered 250 blocks to his name in the season. "My goals were always to help my team as best as I could and get better as the year went on," Wembanyama said from San Antonio on TNT after the award. "I knew in order to do this I had to be individually good on the court and dominant. So, it was a huge thing for me and a big thing to get. It's always been really important and I'm glad it's finally official," he added. Wembanyama, however, has his eyes set on bigger awards, such as Defensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player as well. "The most important to me is always winning," Wembanyama said to sports website ESPN. "You know, winning the chip clearly is what I wanna do. But, those individual awards tell a lot about the path a player takes throughout his career to get to those heights. They are important to me and I'm dedicated to winning some." His team, however, had a poor season which saw them lose 60 of their 82 regular season games.

San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama named unanimous NBA Rookie of the Year

Victor Wembanyama's first clash with Giannis Antetokounmpo will have to wait after the San Antonio Spurs said their sensational rookie would miss Tuesday's NBA game against the Milwaukee Bucks with a sore right ankle. Wembanyama was listed as "out" for Tuesday's game on the Spurs' injury report on Monday.

ESPN reported the 19-year-old French star, who was the number one pick in the NBA draft, is not expected to miss much time. The Spurs visit the Chicago Bulls on Thursday and the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday.

Wembanyama scored 17 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and four blocked shots in 31 minutes in San Antonio's blowout loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. In 24 games this season he has averaged 19 points, 11 rebounds and three blocked shots and has posted a double-double in his past eight games.

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Tuesday will mark just the second game Wembanyama has missed this season. He sat out a game against the Pelicans on December 1 with tightness in his right hip.

Victor Wembanyama's first clash with Giannis Antetokounmpo will have to wait after the San Antonio Spurs said their sensational rookie would miss Tuesday's NBA game against the Milwaukee Bucks with a sore right ankle.

Victor Wembanyama's first clash with Giannis Antetokounmpo will have to wait after the San Antonio Spurs said their sensational rookie would miss Tuesday's NBA game against the Milwaukee Bucks with a sore right ankle. Wembanyama was listed as "out" for Tuesday's game on the Spurs' injury report on Monday. ESPN reported the 19-year-old French star, who was the number one pick in the NBA draft, is not expected to miss much time. The Spurs visit the Chicago Bulls on Thursday and the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday. Wembanyama scored 17 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and four blocked shots in 31 minutes in San Antonio's blowout loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. In 24 games this season he has averaged 19 points, 11 rebounds and three blocked shots and has posted a double-double in his past eight games. Also read: Premier League: Manchester City fined for chaos during Tottenham Hotspur game Tuesday will mark just the second game Wembanyama has missed this season. He sat out a game against the Pelicans on December 1 with tightness in his right hip.

San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama to miss meeting with Milwaukee Bucks with sore ankle

French sensation Victor Wembanyama came out on top in his first tussle with NBA superstar LeBron James Friday as the San Antonio Spurs snapped their 18-game losing streak with a 129-115 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Two days after falling to the Lakers in a game that James sat out, the Spurs halted the longest losing streak in franchise history.

Devin Vassell scored a career-high 36 points for San Antonio and seven Spurs players -- including Wembanyama -- scored in double figures.

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Wembanyama, whose arrival in the league has been compared to that of James 20 years ago, scored 13 points and grabbed 15 rebounds with five assists, two blocked shots and two steals.

It was the 19-year-old rookie's fifth game this season with multiple blocks and multiple steals.

James, the four-time NBA champion who will turn 39 this month, scored 23 points with seven rebounds and 14 assists.

But without Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell and Cam Reddish, the Lakers trailed from start to finish.

James impressed with an early steal and dunk, but the Spurs led by as many as 25 in the first half and for once were able to make the lead stand up.

Los Angeles cut the deficit to four points shortly before halftime with a run that included James's high-arching three-pointer over the towering Wembanyama.

But the Spurs kept the pressure on after the break, outscoring the Lakers 29-25 in the third period to take a 98-87 lead into the final quarter.

The Lakers pulled their starters midway through the fourth and the young Spurs team were able to celebrate their first victory since a November 2 triumph over Phoenix.

"This is what I'm addicted to, winning, this is what I love," said Wembanyama, who credited Vassell's 12-of-19 shooting with keeping the Lakers at bay.

"Everything went in," Wembanyama said of his teammate's big night. "I think if he didn't make those shots they would have had more runs, but by himself he kept the lead for us."

James said the multiple injury absences were just too much for the Lakers to overcome.

"You give credit where it's due," he added. "San Antonio played great tonight, they shot the ball extremely well. They attacked us and we're just limited with bodies."

James said his first clash with Wembanyama only reinforced his previous assessment that the highly touted rookie is a "special talent."

There was no respite for the Detroit Pistons, who suffered a franchise-record 22nd straight defeat with a 124-92 loss to the 76ers in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia's NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 35 points and pulled down 13 rebounds for his ninth straight double-double.

Tyrese Maxey added 19 points for the Sixers, who won their fifth straight.

The Pistons had matched their longest-ever losing streak with a loss to Philadelphia on Wednesday.

Their skid is the sixth-longest in a single season in NBA history. Cleveland in 2010-11 and Philadelphia in 2013-14 share the record for the longest at 26 straight defeats.

<h2>Brunson pours in 50</h2>

New York's Jalen Brunson made nine of nine from three-point range on the way to a career-high 50 points in the Knicks' 139-122 victory over the Suns in Phoenix.

Brunson was a perfect 12-for-12 from the floor in the second half -- including eight three-pointers -- as the Knicks handed the Suns a defeat made more painful by the early exit of Bradley Beal with an ankle injury.

The Eastern Conference-leading Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at home, riding 30 points from Jayson Tatum to a 128-111 victory over the upstart Orlando Magic.

Derrick White added 19 points, Jaylen Brown scored 18 and Payton Pritchard added 21 off the bench for the Celtics, who improved to 13-0 at TD Garden and 19-5 for the season despite missing Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford and Luke Kornet.

Jalen Suggs scored 19 points for the Magic, who dropped to fourth in the East behind the Celtics, Bucks and 76ers.

Dillon Brooks made a triumphant return to Memphis, scoring 24 of his 26 points in the second half to fuel the Houston Rockets' rally for a 103-96 victory over the Grizzlies, who traded Brooks in the offseason.

French sensation Victor Wembanyama came out on top in his first tussle with NBA superstar LeBron James Friday as the San Antonio Spurs snapped their 18-game losing streak with a 129-115 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

French sensation Victor Wembanyama came out on top in his first tussle with NBA superstar LeBron James Friday as the San Antonio Spurs snapped their 18-game losing streak with a 129-115 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Two days after falling to the Lakers in a game that James sat out, the Spurs halted the longest losing streak in franchise history. Devin Vassell scored a career-high 36 points for San Antonio and seven Spurs players -- including Wembanyama -- scored in double figures. Also Read: Pep Guardiola mulls potential move to replace outgoing Kalvin Phillips at Manchester City Wembanyama, whose arrival in the league has been compared to that of James 20 years ago, scored 13 points and grabbed 15 rebounds with five assists, two blocked shots and two steals. It was the 19-year-old rookie's fifth game this season with multiple blocks and multiple steals. James, the four-time NBA champion who will turn 39 this month, scored 23 points with seven rebounds and 14 assists. But without Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell and Cam Reddish, the Lakers trailed from start to finish. James impressed with an early steal and dunk, but the Spurs led by as many as 25 in the first half and for once were able to make the lead stand up. Los Angeles cut the deficit to four points shortly before halftime with a run that included James's high-arching three-pointer over the towering Wembanyama. But the Spurs kept the pressure on after the break, outscoring the Lakers 29-25 in the third period to take a 98-87 lead into the final quarter. The Lakers pulled their starters midway through the fourth and the young Spurs team were able to celebrate their first victory since a November 2 triumph over Phoenix. "This is what I'm addicted to, winning, this is what I love," said Wembanyama, who credited Vassell's 12-of-19 shooting with keeping the Lakers at bay. "Everything went in," Wembanyama said of his teammate's big night. "I think if he didn't make those shots they would have had more runs, but by himself he kept the lead for us." James said the multiple injury absences were just too much for the Lakers to overcome. "You give credit where it's due," he added. "San Antonio played great tonight, they shot the ball extremely well. They attacked us and we're just limited with bodies." James said his first clash with Wembanyama only reinforced his previous assessment that the highly touted rookie is a "special talent." There was no respite for the Detroit Pistons, who suffered a franchise-record 22nd straight defeat with a 124-92 loss to the 76ers in Philadelphia. Philadelphia's NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 35 points and pulled down 13 rebounds for his ninth straight double-double. Tyrese Maxey added 19 points for the Sixers, who won their fifth straight. The Pistons had matched their longest-ever losing streak with a loss to Philadelphia on Wednesday. Their skid is the sixth-longest in a single season in NBA history. Cleveland in 2010-11 and Philadelphia in 2013-14 share the record for the longest at 26 straight defeats. Brunson pours in 50 New York's Jalen Brunson made nine of nine from three-point range on the way to a career-high 50 points in the Knicks' 139-122 victory over the Suns in Phoenix. Brunson was a perfect 12-for-12 from the floor in the second half -- including eight three-pointers -- as the Knicks handed the Suns a defeat made more painful by the early exit of Bradley Beal with an ankle injury. The Eastern Conference-leading Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at home, riding 30 points from Jayson Tatum to a 128-111 victory over the upstart Orlando Magic. Derrick White added 19 points, Jaylen Brown scored 18 and Payton Pritchard added 21 off the bench for the Celtics, who improved to 13-0 at TD Garden and 19-5 for the season despite missing Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford and Luke Kornet. Jalen Suggs scored 19 points for the Magic, who dropped to fourth in the East behind the Celtics, Bucks and 76ers. Dillon Brooks made a triumphant return to Memphis, scoring 24 of his 26 points in the second half to fuel the Houston Rockets' rally for a 103-96 victory over the Grizzlies, who traded Brooks in the offseason.

Victor Wembanyama comes out triumphant in first tussle with LeBron James as Spurs beat Lakers

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama put on a show, but his San Antonio Spurs slumped to a seventh straight defeat on Friday, with the Sacramento Kings knocking them out of the NBA's new in-season tournament with a 129-120 triumph. De'Aaron Fox matched his career high with 43 points, adding eight rebounds and seven assists for the Kings, who weathered a series of San Antonio scoring spurts to seal the win.

After scoring just eight points in a 36-point loss to Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Wembanyama scored 27 points and pulled down nine rebounds. Wembanyama impressed with an array of shots that included an alley-oop dunk on which his head threatened to hit the backboard. Zach Collins scored 28 for the Spurs, who roared to an 18-point lead in the first quarter but couldn't keep pace in a fourth quarter that saw Fox deliver 14 points as Wembanyama was held to six. A game of multiple momentum shifts saw the Spurs close within 112-111 midway through the fourth, but the Kings responded with a 7-0 scoring run and held on.

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Now 3-9, the Spurs fell to 0-3 in group play in the league's new Cup-style tournament -- out of the running for a quarter-final berth. In other tournament games on Friday -- which also count in the regular-season standings -- Zion Williamson scored 26 points and the New Orleans Pelicans withstood a Nikola Jokic triple-double in a 115-110 victory over the NBA champion Denver Nuggets.

Brandon Ingram added 21 points for New Orleans. He and Williamson each made a pair of buckets in an 8-0 scoring run that saw the Pelicans pull away after Denver closed within one point with 4:01 to play. Jokic scored 26 points, pulled down 16 rebounds and matched his career high with 18 assists.

The Nuggets, still without injured Jamal Murray, never led. But they battled back from a 20-point third-quarter deficit to give themselves a chance in the final period. Down by three with less than a minute remaining, the Nuggets came up empty on three straight three-point attempts on the same possession and the Pelicans escaped with the win. In Toronto, Boston guard Derrick White drained a go-ahead three-pointer with 27.5 seconds left as the Celtics held off the hard-charging Raptors 108-105.

Jaylen Brown scored 23 points, Jayson Tatum added 17 and Kristaps Porzingis chipped in 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Celtics, who are 2-0 in tournament play and improved to 10-2 in the regular season standings -- still leading the Eastern Conference by one game from the Philadelphia 76ers, who beat the Atlanta Hawks 126-116. Pascal Siakam and Dennis Schroder scored 23 points apiece for the Raptors. Scottie Barnes had a chance to tie it with 11.4 seconds left but couldn't get his three-pointer to drop.

In Atlanta, 76ers star Joel Embiid -- questionable to start because of a sore hip -- scored 32 points and grabbed seven rebounds.Tobias Harris added a season-high 29 points and 10 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey finished with 19 points for Philadelphia, who ended a two-game losing streak.

<h2>Bridges returns&nbsp;</h2>

In Charlotte, Milwaukee's Damian Lillard scored 27 points to lead seven Bucks players in double figures in a 130-99 victory over the Hornets. Malik Beasley added 20 points and Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from a one-game injury absence to score 16 points with eight rebounds and nine assists in Milwaukee's third-straight victory.

The Bucks connected on 22 of 45 three-pointers to withstand a 37-point night from Charlotte's LaMelo Ball. Miles Bridges came off the bench for Charlotte and scored 17 points in his first NBA game since April 2022.

Bridges missed all of last season and was suspended 10 games to start this season after pleading no contest in a felony domestic violence incident last year. The Bucks out-scored the Hornets 38-18 in the fourth quarter, and Lillard said it was important to keep the pressure on. Both teams are 2-0 in tournament play, and scoring margins could come into play in deciding who advances to the knockout stages of the new tournament. "We had to keep our foot on the gas tonight," he said. "I think that's good for our mentality."

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama put on a show, but his San Antonio Spurs slumped to a seventh straight defeat on Friday, with the Sacramento Kings knocking them out of the NBA's new in-season tournament with a 129-120 triumph.

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama put on a show, but his San Antonio Spurs slumped to a seventh straight defeat on Friday, with the Sacramento Kings knocking them out of the NBA's new in-season tournament with a 129-120 triumph. De'Aaron Fox matched his career high with 43 points, adding eight rebounds and seven assists for the Kings, who weathered a series of San Antonio scoring spurts to seal the win. After scoring just eight points in a 36-point loss to Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Wembanyama scored 27 points and pulled down nine rebounds. Wembanyama impressed with an array of shots that included an alley-oop dunk on which his head threatened to hit the backboard. Zach Collins scored 28 for the Spurs, who roared to an 18-point lead in the first quarter but couldn't keep pace in a fourth quarter that saw Fox deliver 14 points as Wembanyama was held to six. A game of multiple momentum shifts saw the Spurs close within 112-111 midway through the fourth, but the Kings responded with a 7-0 scoring run and held on. Also Read: Premier League: Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag vows full support to struggling Rashford Now 3-9, the Spurs fell to 0-3 in group play in the league's new Cup-style tournament -- out of the running for a quarter-final berth. In other tournament games on Friday -- which also count in the regular-season standings -- Zion Williamson scored 26 points and the New Orleans Pelicans withstood a Nikola Jokic triple-double in a 115-110 victory over the NBA champion Denver Nuggets. Brandon Ingram added 21 points for New Orleans. He and Williamson each made a pair of buckets in an 8-0 scoring run that saw the Pelicans pull away after Denver closed within one point with 4:01 to play. Jokic scored 26 points, pulled down 16 rebounds and matched his career high with 18 assists. The Nuggets, still without injured Jamal Murray, never led. But they battled back from a 20-point third-quarter deficit to give themselves a chance in the final period. Down by three with less than a minute remaining, the Nuggets came up empty on three straight three-point attempts on the same possession and the Pelicans escaped with the win. In Toronto, Boston guard Derrick White drained a go-ahead three-pointer with 27.5 seconds left as the Celtics held off the hard-charging Raptors 108-105. Jaylen Brown scored 23 points, Jayson Tatum added 17 and Kristaps Porzingis chipped in 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Celtics, who are 2-0 in tournament play and improved to 10-2 in the regular season standings -- still leading the Eastern Conference by one game from the Philadelphia 76ers, who beat the Atlanta Hawks 126-116. Pascal Siakam and Dennis Schroder scored 23 points apiece for the Raptors. Scottie Barnes had a chance to tie it with 11.4 seconds left but couldn't get his three-pointer to drop. In Atlanta, 76ers star Joel Embiid -- questionable to start because of a sore hip -- scored 32 points and grabbed seven rebounds.Tobias Harris added a season-high 29 points and 10 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey finished with 19 points for Philadelphia, who ended a two-game losing streak. Bridges returns In Charlotte, Milwaukee's Damian Lillard scored 27 points to lead seven Bucks players in double figures in a 130-99 victory over the Hornets. Malik Beasley added 20 points and Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from a one-game injury absence to score 16 points with eight rebounds and nine assists in Milwaukee's third-straight victory. The Bucks connected on 22 of 45 three-pointers to withstand a 37-point night from Charlotte's LaMelo Ball. Miles Bridges came off the bench for Charlotte and scored 17 points in his first NBA game since April 2022. Bridges missed all of last season and was suspended 10 games to start this season after pleading no contest in a felony domestic violence incident last year. The Bucks out-scored the Hornets 38-18 in the fourth quarter, and Lillard said it was important to keep the pressure on. Both teams are 2-0 in tournament play, and scoring margins could come into play in deciding who advances to the knockout stages of the new tournament. "We had to keep our foot on the gas tonight," he said. "I think that's good for our mentality."

Sacramento Kings knock out San Antonio Spurs in NBA Tournament, despite Victor Wembanyama's good performance

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

The talented 19-year-old is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation player, tipped to have the same kind of impact on the NBA that LeBron James had when he landed in the league 20 years ago.

The sprawling Texas metropolis of San Antonio has quickly embraced Wembanyama, with murals devoted to the rising star popping up across the city since his selection in the NBA Draft in June. San Antonio sandwich shops have named snacks after the teenager, while one mariachi band in the city has even dedicated a song to Wembanyama.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/nba/news-nba-sore-hip-sidelines-san-antonios-victor-wembanyama-for-first-time-in-career-665303">NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career</a>

More than 13,000 fans turned up to a Spurs pre-season practice to watch him while NBA executives say the Frenchman has attracted 95 million views across the league's social media channels during the offseason -- more than any other player in the league. Wembanyama has taken the soaring hype in his stride, showing no sign of stage fright in a series of sparkling pre-season performances for San Antonio.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday on the eve of his debut, the 7ft 4in (2.25m) tall teenager acknowledged some nervous excitement as his personal D-Day approached.

<h2>Lifelong dream</h2>

"Some butterflies in my stomach, like I have before every match, depending on what's at stake," Wembanyama said.&nbsp; "But it's not like I'm shaking either -- just a little stomach ache."

Wembanyama's debut will be the realization of a lifelong dream for the Frenchman, who said he had been thinking about playing in the NBA for "as long as I have memories." While pre-season had given him a taste of what to expect in the NBA, Wembanyama said making his regular season start still felt "unreal."

"I thought a month ago that some pre-season games would prepare me for this moment, but it's totally different," said Wembanyama, who has set himself a goal of winning "as many titles as I can" with San Antonio.&nbsp;"I know it's something you don't easily do, most players have a career and never make it to the finals, or win championships," Wembanyama said.&nbsp;

"It's one of my biggest goals in life so I know I'm gonna reach this, one day or the other. I'm dedicating the next I don't know how many years of my life to reach this. I'm ready to sacrifice anything." Wembanyama&nbsp;averaged just over 19 points a game in four pre-season appearances for San Antonio, but believes he still has not demonstrated the full range of his skills.

"I know nobody has seen my best so far," he said.&nbsp; Wembanyama revealed he had been on a steep learning curve since starting training with San Antonio, receiving insights to play at both ends of the court.&nbsp;

"In defense I've been in a role that I never had before. I love learning," he said. "I'm really excited, it's promising. We've learned quicker than I expected. Possibilities in defense are endless with this team." Wembanyama's growing legion of admirers includes Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who will go head-to-head with the teenager on Wednesday.

"It's pretty crazy what he does on the court," Doncic said of Wembanyama on Tuesday. "What is he? Two meters (tall)? The things he does for that length, it's unbelievable.&nbsp;"The way he moves, the way he handles the ball, shoots the ball, and obviously the blocking. So, I've been watching, and he's an amazing player."

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks. The talented 19-year-old is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation player, tipped to have the same kind of impact on the NBA that LeBron James had when he landed in the league 20 years ago. The sprawling Texas metropolis of San Antonio has quickly embraced Wembanyama, with murals devoted to the rising star popping up across the city since his selection in the NBA Draft in June. San Antonio sandwich shops have named snacks after the teenager, while one mariachi band in the city has even dedicated a song to Wembanyama. Also Read: NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career More than 13,000 fans turned up to a Spurs pre-season practice to watch him while NBA executives say the Frenchman has attracted 95 million views across the league's social media channels during the offseason -- more than any other player in the league. Wembanyama has taken the soaring hype in his stride, showing no sign of stage fright in a series of sparkling pre-season performances for San Antonio. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday on the eve of his debut, the 7ft 4in (2.25m) tall teenager acknowledged some nervous excitement as his personal D-Day approached. Lifelong dream "Some butterflies in my stomach, like I have before every match, depending on what's at stake," Wembanyama said. "But it's not like I'm shaking either -- just a little stomach ache." Wembanyama's debut will be the realization of a lifelong dream for the Frenchman, who said he had been thinking about playing in the NBA for "as long as I have memories." While pre-season had given him a taste of what to expect in the NBA, Wembanyama said making his regular season start still felt "unreal." "I thought a month ago that some pre-season games would prepare me for this moment, but it's totally different," said Wembanyama, who has set himself a goal of winning "as many titles as I can" with San Antonio. "I know it's something you don't easily do, most players have a career and never make it to the finals, or win championships," Wembanyama said. "It's one of my biggest goals in life so I know I'm gonna reach this, one day or the other. I'm dedicating the next I don't know how many years of my life to reach this. I'm ready to sacrifice anything." Wembanyama averaged just over 19 points a game in four pre-season appearances for San Antonio, but believes he still has not demonstrated the full range of his skills. "I know nobody has seen my best so far," he said. Wembanyama revealed he had been on a steep learning curve since starting training with San Antonio, receiving insights to play at both ends of the court. "In defense I've been in a role that I never had before. I love learning," he said. "I'm really excited, it's promising. We've learned quicker than I expected. Possibilities in defense are endless with this team." Wembanyama's growing legion of admirers includes Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who will go head-to-head with the teenager on Wednesday. "It's pretty crazy what he does on the court," Doncic said of Wembanyama on Tuesday. "What is he? Two meters (tall)? The things he does for that length, it's unbelievable. "The way he moves, the way he handles the ball, shoots the ball, and obviously the blocking. So, I've been watching, and he's an amazing player."

NBA: French sensation Victor Wembanyama admits having butterflies ahead of San Antonio Spurs debut

San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the first time in his NBA career on Friday as the Spurs ruled him out against the New Orleans Pelicans with a sore right hip.

Wembanyama played through the problem on Thursday, scoring 21 points with 12 rebounds and four blocked shots in the Spurs' 137-135 loss to the Atlanta Hawks -- San Antonio's 13th straight defeat.

The towering French teen downplayed the injury after the game, but said he considered it a "day to day" decision as to whether he would play.

"My body in general feels as good as we can expect this many games into the season," said Wembanyama, the number one draft pick who said he's still learning to manage his fitness during the rigors of an NBA campaign.

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"Once the season starts, that's what I've learned, it's more maintaining," he said. "Every day we mustn't miss meals, must sleep as much as we can."

Spurs medical staff have been monitoring the tightness in his hip, and coach Gregg Popovich had indicated after Thursday's game that a day off for Wembanyama could be on the cards.

"We're trying to protect him," Popovich said. "We'll see how his hip came out of this one."

In 18 games, Wembanyama is averaging 19.3 points and 9.7 rebounds, the most among all rookies. His average of 2.7 blocks per game leads the league.

San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the first time in his NBA career on Friday as the Spurs ruled him out against the New Orleans Pelicans with a sore right hip.

San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the first time in his NBA career on Friday as the Spurs ruled him out against the New Orleans Pelicans with a sore right hip. Wembanyama played through the problem on Thursday, scoring 21 points with 12 rebounds and four blocked shots in the Spurs' 137-135 loss to the Atlanta Hawks -- San Antonio's 13th straight defeat. The towering French teen downplayed the injury after the game, but said he considered it a "day to day" decision as to whether he would play. "My body in general feels as good as we can expect this many games into the season," said Wembanyama, the number one draft pick who said he's still learning to manage his fitness during the rigors of an NBA campaign. ALSO READ | 'It's insane': Ramiz Raja slams PCB for 'tainted' Salman Butt's appointment "Once the season starts, that's what I've learned, it's more maintaining," he said. "Every day we mustn't miss meals, must sleep as much as we can." Spurs medical staff have been monitoring the tightness in his hip, and coach Gregg Popovich had indicated after Thursday's game that a day off for Wembanyama could be on the cards. "We're trying to protect him," Popovich said. "We'll see how his hip came out of this one." In 18 games, Wembanyama is averaging 19.3 points and 9.7 rebounds, the most among all rookies. His average of 2.7 blocks per game leads the league.

Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career

Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama, this year's number one draft pick in the NBA, shined again with an eye-catching 23-point performance in his second pre-season outing for the San Antonio Spurs. Frenchman&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;led the Spurs to a 120-104 home win over a second-string Miami Heat, with the 19-year-old also adding four rebounds, four assists and three blocks in just under 23 minutes on court.

The 7ft 3in&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;brought the Frost Bank Center crowd to their feet with a furious dunk in the second quarter, and was 10-of-15 shooting. He produced a series of spectacular plays, both offensively and defensively, with the most eye-catching a remarkable left-handed dunk from outside of the restricted area in the third quarter.

"I'm still learning to do some things defensively, defending the pin downs, for example," he said. "I'm really learning a lot, and I'm trying to expand my tools on defense, too," he added.

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Wembanyama&nbsp;said that he felt that both he and the team were developing an understanding with each other. "I think we're on the right path. We've still got a lot to learn about ourselves and also about our teammates but we are on the right path," he said. "Personally, I'm trying to apply what the coach says. I'm learning a lot, lots of new stuff, and I think it's all going down to our individual sacrifices," he added.

Rated as one of the most exciting talents to enter the league in years,&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said he has been impressed with how quickly his team-mates have adjusted to his range of skills, well beyond the norm for such a tall player.

"For most of my short career so far, my teammates have had to learn to play with me because sometimes I know they are surprised to see me do some stuff," he said.

"But the surprise coming here is I play in the best league in the world now, and the guys just learn quicker. I feel like we've already got a connection, all of us, and I'm really thankful for that," he said.

San Antonio's opening match of the regular season is at home on October 25 against Dallas.

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Victor Wembanyama, this year's number one draft pick in the NBA, shined again with an eye-catching 23-point performance in his second pre-season outing for the San Antonio Spurs.

Victor Wembanyama, this year's number one draft pick in the NBA, shined again with an eye-catching 23-point performance in his second pre-season outing for the San Antonio Spurs. Frenchman Wembanyama led the Spurs to a 120-104 home win over a second-string Miami Heat, with the 19-year-old also adding four rebounds, four assists and three blocks in just under 23 minutes on court. The 7ft 3in Wembanyama brought the Frost Bank Center crowd to their feet with a furious dunk in the second quarter, and was 10-of-15 shooting. He produced a series of spectacular plays, both offensively and defensively, with the most eye-catching a remarkable left-handed dunk from outside of the restricted area in the third quarter. "I'm still learning to do some things defensively, defending the pin downs, for example," he said. "I'm really learning a lot, and I'm trying to expand my tools on defense, too," he added. Also Read: WATCH | Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials Wembanyama said that he felt that both he and the team were developing an understanding with each other. "I think we're on the right path. We've still got a lot to learn about ourselves and also about our teammates but we are on the right path," he said. "Personally, I'm trying to apply what the coach says. I'm learning a lot, lots of new stuff, and I think it's all going down to our individual sacrifices," he added. Rated as one of the most exciting talents to enter the league in years, Wembanyama said he has been impressed with how quickly his team-mates have adjusted to his range of skills, well beyond the norm for such a tall player. "For most of my short career so far, my teammates have had to learn to play with me because sometimes I know they are surprised to see me do some stuff," he said. "But the surprise coming here is I play in the best league in the world now, and the guys just learn quicker. I feel like we've already got a connection, all of us, and I'm really thankful for that," he said. San Antonio's opening match of the regular season is at home on October 25 against Dallas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama leads San Antonio Spurs to home win over second-string Miami Heat

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas.&nbsp; This year's top NBA Draft pick, in foul trouble throughout the second half, made 6-of-9 shots from the floor, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, with five rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot over 23 minutes in his first NBA contest.

It was Slovenian guard Luka Doncic of Dallas who starred with 33 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists as the Mavericks scored the last eight points for the victory."It all starts with our defense," Doncic said. "We played good defense for three quarters but especially at the end we locked in."

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Wembanyama, the 19-year-old phenomenon considered the top NBA prospect since LeBron James, used his 7-foot-4 (2.24m) frame, surprising quickness and outside shooting touch to display his arsenal of skills in the first game of his rookie campaign. After picking up his fifth foul only 26 seconds into the fourth quarter, Wembanyama went to the bench until only 7:12 remained.

Only 19 seconds later, Wembanyama made an alley-oop dunk shot off a pass from Devin Vassell, then added a 3-pointer, and his dunk with 4:56 to play gave the Spurs a 113-112 lead. A Wembanyama jumper tied it at 115-115 with 3:55 remaining, but the Mavs were too tough for the Spurs down the stretch.

"Wemby" began drawing huge cheers after only 38 seconds, blocking a jump shot by eight-time NBA All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Attracting global attention since before joining the squad where compatriot Tony Parker became an NBA superstar, Wembanyama grabbed his first rebound off the defensive boards after 59 seconds and his first assist came 12 seconds later off a Zach Collins jumper. Wembanyama opened his NBA scoring account on a 3-pointer with 8:24 remaining in the first quarter for a 13-7 Spurs lead.

Wembanyama picked up his second foul late in the first quarter and went to the bench with the Spurs ahead 40-33 on the way to a 68-64 halftime lead. In the first half, Wembanyama had six points on 2-of-4 shooting, all from 3-point range, with three rebounds, a blocked shot, an assist and a steal over 12 minutes.

In the second half, Wembanyama picked up his third and fourth fouls 39 seconds apart, both offensively, and went to the bench 3:23 into the third quarter. Seconds later, the Mavericks took their first lead at 73-72 and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run for their largest lead to that point at 96-91.

"Fortunately for us he's a very tooled, prioritized young man," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of Wembanyama. "I don't have to teach him what is it to be a pro."

<h2>Tatum leads Boston win&nbsp;</h2>

In other NBA openers, Jayson Tatum had 34 points and 11 rebounds while Latvian forward Kristaps Porzingis added 30 points to lead Boston's 108-104 triumph at New York. Porzingis had the most points for any player making his Celtics debut. Sacramento's Harrison Barnes scored 33 points to power Sacramento over host Utah 130-114.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points led Oklahoma City in a 124-104 win at Chicago. Donovan Mitchell's 3-pointer with 12.1 seconds remaining lifted Cleveland to a 114-113 victory at Brooklyn. Mitchell and Max Strus each scored 27 to lead the Cavaliers. Detroit missed four shots in the last 64 seconds and host Miami, led by Bam Adebayo's 22 points and 19 from Jimmy Butler, edged the Pistons 103-102.

C.J. McCollum had 24 points and Zion Williamson added 23 to lead New Orleans over host Memphis 111-104.

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas.

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas. This year's top NBA Draft pick, in foul trouble throughout the second half, made 6-of-9 shots from the floor, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, with five rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot over 23 minutes in his first NBA contest. It was Slovenian guard Luka Doncic of Dallas who starred with 33 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists as the Mavericks scored the last eight points for the victory."It all starts with our defense," Doncic said. "We played good defense for three quarters but especially at the end we locked in." Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for an impressive 41-35 win over Seattle Seahawks Wembanyama, the 19-year-old phenomenon considered the top NBA prospect since LeBron James, used his 7-foot-4 (2.24m) frame, surprising quickness and outside shooting touch to display his arsenal of skills in the first game of his rookie campaign. After picking up his fifth foul only 26 seconds into the fourth quarter, Wembanyama went to the bench until only 7:12 remained. Only 19 seconds later, Wembanyama made an alley-oop dunk shot off a pass from Devin Vassell, then added a 3-pointer, and his dunk with 4:56 to play gave the Spurs a 113-112 lead. A Wembanyama jumper tied it at 115-115 with 3:55 remaining, but the Mavs were too tough for the Spurs down the stretch. "Wemby" began drawing huge cheers after only 38 seconds, blocking a jump shot by eight-time NBA All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Attracting global attention since before joining the squad where compatriot Tony Parker became an NBA superstar, Wembanyama grabbed his first rebound off the defensive boards after 59 seconds and his first assist came 12 seconds later off a Zach Collins jumper. Wembanyama opened his NBA scoring account on a 3-pointer with 8:24 remaining in the first quarter for a 13-7 Spurs lead. Wembanyama picked up his second foul late in the first quarter and went to the bench with the Spurs ahead 40-33 on the way to a 68-64 halftime lead. In the first half, Wembanyama had six points on 2-of-4 shooting, all from 3-point range, with three rebounds, a blocked shot, an assist and a steal over 12 minutes. In the second half, Wembanyama picked up his third and fourth fouls 39 seconds apart, both offensively, and went to the bench 3:23 into the third quarter. Seconds later, the Mavericks took their first lead at 73-72 and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run for their largest lead to that point at 96-91. "Fortunately for us he's a very tooled, prioritized young man," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of Wembanyama. "I don't have to teach him what is it to be a pro." Tatum leads Boston win In other NBA openers, Jayson Tatum had 34 points and 11 rebounds while Latvian forward Kristaps Porzingis added 30 points to lead Boston's 108-104 triumph at New York. Porzingis had the most points for any player making his Celtics debut. Sacramento's Harrison Barnes scored 33 points to power Sacramento over host Utah 130-114. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points led Oklahoma City in a 124-104 win at Chicago. Donovan Mitchell's 3-pointer with 12.1 seconds remaining lifted Cleveland to a 114-113 victory at Brooklyn. Mitchell and Max Strus each scored 27 to lead the Cavaliers. Detroit missed four shots in the last 64 seconds and host Miami, led by Bam Adebayo's 22 points and 19 from Jimmy Butler, edged the Pistons 103-102. C.J. McCollum had 24 points and Zion Williamson added 23 to lead New Orleans over host Memphis 111-104.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama points not enough to defeat Dallas Mavericks

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;beat&nbsp;rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday&nbsp;while&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Draft top pick Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;starred in his&nbsp;first&nbsp;win&nbsp;for the San Antonio Spurs. Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and Jaylen Brown contributed 27 in a strong all-around display from Boston, with all five starters in double figures as the&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;won their home opener, a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference championship series.

Miami trailed by just three points with 47.1 seconds left when Jimmy Butler was called for a foul on White, which was unsuccessfully challenged by furious Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. White then drained his two free throws and when Tyler Herro missed a 3-point jumper and Brown sank his from 30-feet out, Miami's resistance was finally over.

Three crucial blocks added to an impressive performance from White, who was delighted with beating a&nbsp;Heat&nbsp;team that secured a place in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Finals with a game-seven triumph at Boston. "Anytime you're on home court, you want to protect the home court and obviously, last time we played them here, they came out winning," White said.

"It's always a big game every time we play against them and we're going to see them down the line a lot of times. So it's always fun." Frenchman&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;turned on the style in San Antonio's 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets, coming up big in the latter stages of the game as he put up 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocked shots and two steals. "It's just a victory but it's a day I'll remember,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said.

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"I really love winning. This is what I love most in life. Of course it feels great." The Spurs trailed by two with 32.1 seconds remaining when the 19-year-old grabbed a defensive rebound and tied the game on a driving layup with 20 seconds remaining in regulation.&nbsp;Wembanyama's 16-foot jumper put his team ahead in overtime and he grabbed four total rebounds in the additional period.

"I'm proud of what we did tonight,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said. "We can see where we can get better. A&nbsp;win&nbsp;is a&nbsp;win&nbsp;but it shows that we got a lot of way to go as a team." Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was impressed by the youngster's impact in his second&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;start, despite "Wemby" going only 2-of-10 from the floor in the&nbsp;first&nbsp;half.

"He's a competitor of course. He's gonna be decisive and do everything to&nbsp;win. But they're all like that," he said. "We showed some composure and some not so composed. That's work in progress. Good was they were persistent."

<h2>Proud 'Pop' praise&nbsp;</h2>

Wembanyama&nbsp;finished the night with 7-of-19 shooting from the floor, grabbing five offensive and seven defensive rebounds. "Back in the locker room, Pop acknowledged it was my&nbsp;first-ever&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;win, just made me proud of myself,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said. "But it's just one. We have a whole lot games to come."

Wembanyama's three dunks brought the arena fans to their feet but he received plenty of verbal attention from Popovich in the final minute of the game. "Cause I forgot a play. It's a little mistake -- 100% legit for him to yell at me. I apologize." said&nbsp;Wembanyama.

Nikola Jokic scored 22 points and made 12 rebounds and seven assists as the reigning&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;champion Denver Nuggets went to 2-0 with a 108-104 victory over Memphis. The Chicago Bulls also enjoyed an overtime&nbsp;win, beating the Toronto Raptors 104-103 with Demar DeRozan scoring 33 points.

Alex Caruso's 3-point jumper with 2.1 seconds remaining secured the victory for Chicago. Luka Doncic scored 49 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 26.1 seconds left, as the Dallas Mavericks held off the Brooklyn Nets 125-120

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Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston Celtics beat rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday while NBA Draft top pick Victor Wembanyama starred in his first win for the San Antonio Spurs.

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston Celtics beat rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday while NBA Draft top pick Victor Wembanyama starred in his first win for the San Antonio Spurs. Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and Jaylen Brown contributed 27 in a strong all-around display from Boston, with all five starters in double figures as the Celtics won their home opener, a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference championship series. Miami trailed by just three points with 47.1 seconds left when Jimmy Butler was called for a foul on White, which was unsuccessfully challenged by furious Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. White then drained his two free throws and when Tyler Herro missed a 3-point jumper and Brown sank his from 30-feet out, Miami's resistance was finally over. Three crucial blocks added to an impressive performance from White, who was delighted with beating a Heat team that secured a place in the NBA Finals with a game-seven triumph at Boston. "Anytime you're on home court, you want to protect the home court and obviously, last time we played them here, they came out winning," White said. "It's always a big game every time we play against them and we're going to see them down the line a lot of times. So it's always fun." Frenchman Wembanyama turned on the style in San Antonio's 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets, coming up big in the latter stages of the game as he put up 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocked shots and two steals. "It's just a victory but it's a day I'll remember," Wembanyama said. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks "I really love winning. This is what I love most in life. Of course it feels great." The Spurs trailed by two with 32.1 seconds remaining when the 19-year-old grabbed a defensive rebound and tied the game on a driving layup with 20 seconds remaining in regulation. Wembanyama's 16-foot jumper put his team ahead in overtime and he grabbed four total rebounds in the additional period. "I'm proud of what we did tonight," Wembanyama said. "We can see where we can get better. A win is a win but it shows that we got a lot of way to go as a team." Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was impressed by the youngster's impact in his second NBA start, despite "Wemby" going only 2-of-10 from the floor in the first half. "He's a competitor of course. He's gonna be decisive and do everything to win. But they're all like that," he said. "We showed some composure and some not so composed. That's work in progress. Good was they were persistent." Proud 'Pop' praise Wembanyama finished the night with 7-of-19 shooting from the floor, grabbing five offensive and seven defensive rebounds. "Back in the locker room, Pop acknowledged it was my first-ever NBA win, just made me proud of myself," Wembanyama said. "But it's just one. We have a whole lot games to come." Wembanyama's three dunks brought the arena fans to their feet but he received plenty of verbal attention from Popovich in the final minute of the game. "Cause I forgot a play. It's a little mistake -- 100% legit for him to yell at me. I apologize." said Wembanyama. Nikola Jokic scored 22 points and made 12 rebounds and seven assists as the reigning NBA champion Denver Nuggets went to 2-0 with a 108-104 victory over Memphis. The Chicago Bulls also enjoyed an overtime win, beating the Toronto Raptors 104-103 with Demar DeRozan scoring 33 points. Alex Caruso's 3-point jumper with 2.1 seconds remaining secured the victory for Chicago. Luka Doncic scored 49 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 26.1 seconds left, as the Dallas Mavericks held off the Brooklyn Nets 125-120 WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Derrick White helps Boston Celtics beat Miami Heat, Victor Wembanyama shines in first win for Spurs

Victor Wembanyama scored 18 points as the San Antonio Spurs staged a dramatic comeback to snatch a last-gasp 115-114 victory over Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. San Antonio, coming off a brutal 40-point mauling by the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, looked to be heading for another heavy defeat after Phoenix cruised into a 20-point lead early in the third quarter. But a thrilling duel in Phoenix was turned on its head by San Antonio in the fourth quarter, who outscored the Suns 33-19 in the final frame to secure victory.

French prodigy Wembanyama, the No.1 NBA Draft pick, played a crucial role in the comeback, with a jump shot from 15 feet making it a three-point game with 49 seconds left on the clock. The 7ft 4in (2.24m) tall teenager then tipped in a dunk to make it a one-point game with seven seconds remaining.

The decisive play however came from forward Keldon Johnson, who wrestled the ball away from a stunned Durant before driving to the basket for a layup that handed San Antonio their first lead of the game with just two seconds remaining. There was still time for Durant to launch an attempted buzzer-beater, but his shot missed to leave San Antonio celebrating their first road win of the season.

"It wasn't our prettiest game but we're learning every day and we're on the right path," the 19-year-old Wembanyama told broadcaster TNT after the win. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich saluted his team's ability to keep grinding away in search of a victory.

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"We made a gazillion mistakes -- but it's a game of mistakes. And so does every team," Popovich said.&nbsp;"But we just kept playing and that's the best thing about the group. I was really proud of them."

<h2>&nbsp;'Eager to sacrifice'&nbsp;</h2>

Wembanyama was one of five San Antonio players who finished in double figures. Johnson led the Spurs scoring with 27 points while Wembanyama also had eight rebounds and four blocks.

The youngster from Paris revealed he had been determined not to be overawed by lining up against one of his NBA idols in Durant, who finished with 26 points to lead the Phoenix scoring. "I mean KD, he's just like in the highlights," Wembanyama said of Durant.

"Sometimes I want to think like 'This is a guy I've watched for 10 years, like my idol'. But I've got to lock in because I know he's going to try and step on me the whole game. So I don't care he's my idol." Durant lamented conceding the late turnover from Johnson that ultimately cost Phoenix the win.&nbsp;

"It just happened so fast," Durant said. "I should have held on to it." Wembanyama, who arrived in the NBA declaring he hoped to help San Antonio become championship contenders once again, added that the team's transformation would require patience.&nbsp; "How patient I am? As patient as we need to be. I'm new here," he said. "I don't know yet what it takes to win a championship but I'm eager to find out and make the sacrifices.&nbsp;"The good thing is I have total trust in my organisation and my coach so you know, it's going to take time."

San Antonio's win in Phoenix was one of three games in the NBA on Tuesday. In Los Angeles, the Clippers hosted the Orlando Magic with new recruit James Harden in the building following his blockbuster trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Television footage showed Harden meeting his new team-mates in the locker room ahead of the clash, which the Clippers went on to win 118-102.In the day's other game, the New York Knicks outgunned the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road with Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson scoring 19 points apiece in a 109-91 victory.

Victor Wembanyama scored 18 points as the San Antonio Spurs staged a dramatic comeback to snatch a last-gasp 115-114 victory over Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.

Victor Wembanyama scored 18 points as the San Antonio Spurs staged a dramatic comeback to snatch a last-gasp 115-114 victory over Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. San Antonio, coming off a brutal 40-point mauling by the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, looked to be heading for another heavy defeat after Phoenix cruised into a 20-point lead early in the third quarter. But a thrilling duel in Phoenix was turned on its head by San Antonio in the fourth quarter, who outscored the Suns 33-19 in the final frame to secure victory. French prodigy Wembanyama, the No.1 NBA Draft pick, played a crucial role in the comeback, with a jump shot from 15 feet making it a three-point game with 49 seconds left on the clock. The 7ft 4in (2.24m) tall teenager then tipped in a dunk to make it a one-point game with seven seconds remaining. The decisive play however came from forward Keldon Johnson, who wrestled the ball away from a stunned Durant before driving to the basket for a layup that handed San Antonio their first lead of the game with just two seconds remaining. There was still time for Durant to launch an attempted buzzer-beater, but his shot missed to leave San Antonio celebrating their first road win of the season. "It wasn't our prettiest game but we're learning every day and we're on the right path," the 19-year-old Wembanyama told broadcaster TNT after the win. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich saluted his team's ability to keep grinding away in search of a victory. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks "We made a gazillion mistakes -- but it's a game of mistakes. And so does every team," Popovich said. "But we just kept playing and that's the best thing about the group. I was really proud of them." 'Eager to sacrifice' Wembanyama was one of five San Antonio players who finished in double figures. Johnson led the Spurs scoring with 27 points while Wembanyama also had eight rebounds and four blocks. The youngster from Paris revealed he had been determined not to be overawed by lining up against one of his NBA idols in Durant, who finished with 26 points to lead the Phoenix scoring. "I mean KD, he's just like in the highlights," Wembanyama said of Durant. "Sometimes I want to think like 'This is a guy I've watched for 10 years, like my idol'. But I've got to lock in because I know he's going to try and step on me the whole game. So I don't care he's my idol." Durant lamented conceding the late turnover from Johnson that ultimately cost Phoenix the win. "It just happened so fast," Durant said. "I should have held on to it." Wembanyama, who arrived in the NBA declaring he hoped to help San Antonio become championship contenders once again, added that the team's transformation would require patience. "How patient I am? As patient as we need to be. I'm new here," he said. "I don't know yet what it takes to win a championship but I'm eager to find out and make the sacrifices. "The good thing is I have total trust in my organisation and my coach so you know, it's going to take time." San Antonio's win in Phoenix was one of three games in the NBA on Tuesday. In Los Angeles, the Clippers hosted the Orlando Magic with new recruit James Harden in the building following his blockbuster trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Television footage showed Harden meeting his new team-mates in the locker room ahead of the clash, which the Clippers went on to win 118-102.In the day's other game, the New York Knicks outgunned the Cleveland Cavaliers on the road with Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson scoring 19 points apiece in a 109-91 victory.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama helps San Antonio Spurs defeat Phoenix Suns

French&nbsp;phenomenon&nbsp;Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;poured in&nbsp;38&nbsp;points and came up big in the fourth quarter as the San Antonio&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;held&nbsp;off&nbsp;a late Phoenix rally to beat the&nbsp;Suns&nbsp;132-121 on Thursday. Wembanyama, the number one draft pick playing in his fifth NBA game, notched 20 points in the first half as the&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;pushed their advantage to as many as 27 on the way to a 75-55 lead at the break.

The towering 19-year-old then showed plenty of poise after the&nbsp;Suns&nbsp;roared back to tie the game at 116-116 on Keita Bates-Diop's three-pointer with 4:21 remaining. The&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;responded with 12 straight points, 10 of them from&nbsp;Wembanyama, who produced three free-throws, a dunk, a three-pointer and a turnaround jump shot to put San Antonio back in charge.

"Somebody's got to do it,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said of taking responsibility at the crucial moment. "Tomorrow it's going to be one of my teammates." The burst was even more impressive than his highlight-reel dunk in the second quarter and back-to-back three-pointers to end the first half.

In all&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;connected on 15 of 26 shots from the field and pulled down 10 rebounds with two blocked shots to help the&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;notch their second win in three days over the&nbsp;Suns. On Tuesday San Antonio erased a 20-point third-quarter deficit to stun Phoenix 115-114.

The two games reinforced what&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said was the biggest NBA lesson he'd learned so far -- that "maybe a 20-point lead is nothing." On Thursday the&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;never trailed, although it looked like the&nbsp;Suns&nbsp;might turn the tables as Devin Booker scored 21 of his 31 points in the second half and Kevin Durant scored 15 of his 28 after the break in a furious rally bid.

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Booker, back from an ankle injury, added 13 rebounds and nine assists, but the&nbsp;Suns, hindered by 14 turnovers, never gained the lead. "Of course there was the threat of Durant and Booker, that was our major concern playing the&nbsp;Suns, especially in the fourth quarter,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"It worked really well in the first quarter -- the energy we brought -- so we really tried to find this again, to lock in, know our rotations, our tactics." Durant, the former NBA Most Valuable Player and an idol of&nbsp;Wembanyama's, said he didn't think the French youngster's game was too heavily influenced by his own. "I'm sure he said he watched me growing up, but he's his own player," Durant said. "He's going to create his own lane much different than anybody who's ever played."

<h2>&nbsp;Sixers top Raptors&nbsp;</h2>

Elsewhere, Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first game since trading James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris added 23 points apiece and Tyrese Maxey had 18 for the 76ers, who notched a third straight victory and improved to 3-1 in a young season that had so far been overshadowed by&nbsp;Harden's trade demand.

Maxey insisted that Harden's professionalism meant there were no distractions for a team adjusting to new coach Nick Nurse. "Everybody was really focused on trying to get better," Maxey said of pre-season preparations. "This is coach Nurse's first year, so we were trying to learn schemes, learn how he thinks... there wasn't much of a distraction at all."

Nurse said before the game that from a competitive standpoint Harden's trade to the Clippers "would have been better a month ago." Of the new arrivals in the deal -- Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin and Marcus Morris -- only Covington and Martin entered the game, in the final minutes.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Embiid made just eight of 22 shots from the floor but connected on 12 of 13 from the free-throw line and handed out seven assists. Oubre started in place of PJ Tucker -- who was part of the Harden trade -- and connected on five of six three-point attempts. In New Orlans, CJ McCollum scored 33 points to lead the Pelicans to a 125-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons.

French phenomenon Victor Wembanyama poured in 38 points and came up big in the fourth quarter as the San Antonio Spurs held off a late Phoenix rally to beat the Suns 132-121 on Thursday.

French phenomenon Victor Wembanyama poured in 38 points and came up big in the fourth quarter as the San Antonio Spurs held off a late Phoenix rally to beat the Suns 132-121 on Thursday. Wembanyama, the number one draft pick playing in his fifth NBA game, notched 20 points in the first half as the Spurs pushed their advantage to as many as 27 on the way to a 75-55 lead at the break. The towering 19-year-old then showed plenty of poise after the Suns roared back to tie the game at 116-116 on Keita Bates-Diop's three-pointer with 4:21 remaining. The Spurs responded with 12 straight points, 10 of them from Wembanyama, who produced three free-throws, a dunk, a three-pointer and a turnaround jump shot to put San Antonio back in charge. "Somebody's got to do it," Wembanyama said of taking responsibility at the crucial moment. "Tomorrow it's going to be one of my teammates." The burst was even more impressive than his highlight-reel dunk in the second quarter and back-to-back three-pointers to end the first half. In all Wembanyama connected on 15 of 26 shots from the field and pulled down 10 rebounds with two blocked shots to help the Spurs notch their second win in three days over the Suns. On Tuesday San Antonio erased a 20-point third-quarter deficit to stun Phoenix 115-114. The two games reinforced what Wembanyama said was the biggest NBA lesson he'd learned so far -- that "maybe a 20-point lead is nothing." On Thursday the Spurs never trailed, although it looked like the Suns might turn the tables as Devin Booker scored 21 of his 31 points in the second half and Kevin Durant scored 15 of his 28 after the break in a furious rally bid. Also Read: NBA: Mark Cuban sells majority stake of Dallas Mavericks to Casino tycoon Miriam Adelson Booker, back from an ankle injury, added 13 rebounds and nine assists, but the Suns, hindered by 14 turnovers, never gained the lead. "Of course there was the threat of Durant and Booker, that was our major concern playing the Suns, especially in the fourth quarter," Wembanyama said. "It worked really well in the first quarter -- the energy we brought -- so we really tried to find this again, to lock in, know our rotations, our tactics." Durant, the former NBA Most Valuable Player and an idol of Wembanyama's, said he didn't think the French youngster's game was too heavily influenced by his own. "I'm sure he said he watched me growing up, but he's his own player," Durant said. "He's going to create his own lane much different than anybody who's ever played." Sixers top Raptors Elsewhere, Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first game since trading James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris added 23 points apiece and Tyrese Maxey had 18 for the 76ers, who notched a third straight victory and improved to 3-1 in a young season that had so far been overshadowed by Harden's trade demand. Maxey insisted that Harden's professionalism meant there were no distractions for a team adjusting to new coach Nick Nurse. "Everybody was really focused on trying to get better," Maxey said of pre-season preparations. "This is coach Nurse's first year, so we were trying to learn schemes, learn how he thinks... there wasn't much of a distraction at all." Nurse said before the game that from a competitive standpoint Harden's trade to the Clippers "would have been better a month ago." Of the new arrivals in the deal -- Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin and Marcus Morris -- only Covington and Martin entered the game, in the final minutes. Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Embiid made just eight of 22 shots from the floor but connected on 12 of 13 from the free-throw line and handed out seven assists. Oubre started in place of PJ Tucker -- who was part of the Harden trade -- and connected on five of six three-point attempts. In New Orlans, CJ McCollum scored 33 points to lead the Pelicans to a 125-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama's 38 points helps San Antonio Spurs defeat Phoenix Spurs

From the latest update on the South Korean boy band, BTS, to rare facts about singer Britney Spears. This week's episode of E-club brings you some of the most unknown and interesting stories about these popular artists.

From Britney Spears to BTS, catch all the latest updates | WION E-Club

Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs' &nbsp;no. 1 pick in 2023 NBA Draft, is all but done in the NBA2K24 Summer League after the game against Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. Wemby, in his second game, scored 27 points alongside 12 rebounds to show a glimpse of his potential. The Spurs, however, lost the game.

He later said that he's going to sit with San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich and decide on playing further in the Summer League.

"I know I got to talk with Pop," Wembanyama said Sunday to reporters after the game when asked if he's going to play in the Summer League further. "I'm going to listen to what he's going to say, but I'm ready to make any sacrifice for the team and give 100 per cent."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-chris-paul-asserts-golden-state-warriors-stint-not-his-last-613867">Chris Paul asserts Golden State Warriors stint not his 'last'</a>

Wembanyama's debut, however, was not something he'd have liked. He had a rough outing during Friday's game against the Charlotte Hornets as he went 2-for-13 while shooting from the field. During the game against Portland though, he almost took the Spurs to victory.

Nonetheless, Wembanyama would be on everyone's focus when he debuts for the Spurs in the NBA. The expectations from him are definitely going to be as big as they were during LeBron James' NBA debut 20 years ago, if not bigger.

Wemby too is 'happy' that the Summer League part is over for him despite it being a special moment in his life as he focuses on his debut.

"Like, this past month, I think basketball wasn't even 50 per cent&nbsp;of my schedule," Wembanyama said. "I can't stand it. I know it's a special moment in my life, but I'm just glad it's over, honestly. I just want to hoop, work out and lift."

The Spurs, who went to the postseason 22 years straight from 1996 to 2019, have missed the trip last four seasons and are hoping that Wembanyama's signing could recreate the magic of former no. 1 draft pick Tim Duncan.

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Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs' no. 1 pick in 2023 NBA Draft, is all but done in the NBA2K24 Summer League after the game against Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday.

Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs' no. 1 pick in 2023 NBA Draft, is all but done in the NBA2K24 Summer League after the game against Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. Wemby, in his second game, scored 27 points alongside 12 rebounds to show a glimpse of his potential. The Spurs, however, lost the game. He later said that he's going to sit with San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich and decide on playing further in the Summer League. "I know I got to talk with Pop," Wembanyama said Sunday to reporters after the game when asked if he's going to play in the Summer League further. "I'm going to listen to what he's going to say, but I'm ready to make any sacrifice for the team and give 100 per cent." Also Read: Chris Paul asserts Golden State Warriors stint not his 'last' Wembanyama's debut, however, was not something he'd have liked. He had a rough outing during Friday's game against the Charlotte Hornets as he went 2-for-13 while shooting from the field. During the game against Portland though, he almost took the Spurs to victory. Nonetheless, Wembanyama would be on everyone's focus when he debuts for the Spurs in the NBA. The expectations from him are definitely going to be as big as they were during LeBron James' NBA debut 20 years ago, if not bigger. Wemby too is 'happy' that the Summer League part is over for him despite it being a special moment in his life as he focuses on his debut. "Like, this past month, I think basketball wasn't even 50 per cent of my schedule," Wembanyama said. "I can't stand it. I know it's a special moment in my life, but I'm just glad it's over, honestly. I just want to hoop, work out and lift." The Spurs, who went to the postseason 22 years straight from 1996 to 2019, have missed the trip last four seasons and are hoping that Wembanyama's signing could recreate the magic of former no. 1 draft pick Tim Duncan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Wembanyama all but done in Summer League after game against Trail Blazers

Gregg Popovich has signed a new deal with the San Antonio Spurs. The NBA's all-time winningest coach has agreed to a new five-year deal with the Spurs, announced the NBA franchise on Saturday. The deal is worth north of $80 million, reported ESPN citing sources. Popovich, with the new deal, has surpassed Monty Williams' deal value of $78.5 million for six years which he signed earlier this summer with the Detroit Pistons.

Popovich, 74, has won five NBA Championships with the Spurs after joining them as interim coach back in 1996. His ongoing 26-year-long stay is also the longest in the history of any coach in not only the NBA but all four major leagues in the country.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-officially-announces-new-in-season-tournament-to-be-played-from-2023-24-season-613568">NBA officially announces new in-season tournament, to be played from 2023-24 season</a>

Since joining the Spurs in '96, the team signed Tim Duncan in the following year's draft lottery and started a 22-year long streak of postseason trips which ended in 2019-20. The team has once again signed the No. 1 draft pick in French national Victor Wembanyama this year.

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Popovich has a career win-loss record of 1,366-761 in NBA and he's also third in all-time playoff wins with 170 victories to his name. He surpassed Don Nelson in March last year for the most career wins by an NBA coach.

While the Spurs went 22-60 last season, Popovich was upbeat and spoke about how much he enjoyed his last season.

"We enjoyed the season because we had such great guys character-wise that it didn't matter how many we lost in a row, what mattered was the film session the next day and what we have to do, and they'd be at practice or the next game and try to fulfil everything we wanted them to do," Popovich said.

"So in a sense, it was one of the most -- this will sound strange -- more enjoyable years. It was fun in a way, not being on TV much and you just go to work and you don't worry about results other than players developing and a team understanding going forward."

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Gregg Popovich has signed a new deal with the San Antonio Spurs. The NBA's all-time winningest coach has agreed to a new five-year deal with the Spurs, announced the NBA franchise on Saturday.

Gregg Popovich has signed a new deal with the San Antonio Spurs. The NBA's all-time winningest coach has agreed to a new five-year deal with the Spurs, announced the NBA franchise on Saturday. The deal is worth north of $80 million, reported ESPN citing sources. Popovich, with the new deal, has surpassed Monty Williams' deal value of $78.5 million for six years which he signed earlier this summer with the Detroit Pistons. Popovich, 74, has won five NBA Championships with the Spurs after joining them as interim coach back in 1996. His ongoing 26-year-long stay is also the longest in the history of any coach in not only the NBA but all four major leagues in the country. Also Read: NBA officially announces new in-season tournament, to be played from 2023-24 season Since joining the Spurs in '96, the team signed Tim Duncan in the following year's draft lottery and started a 22-year long streak of postseason trips which ended in 2019-20. The team has once again signed the No. 1 draft pick in French national Victor Wembanyama this year. Gregg Popovich Signs Five-Year Contract pic.twitter.com/GiH9dgev6k — San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) July 8, 2023 × Popovich has a career win-loss record of 1,366-761 in NBA and he's also third in all-time playoff wins with 170 victories to his name. He surpassed Don Nelson in March last year for the most career wins by an NBA coach. While the Spurs went 22-60 last season, Popovich was upbeat and spoke about how much he enjoyed his last season. "We enjoyed the season because we had such great guys character-wise that it didn't matter how many we lost in a row, what mattered was the film session the next day and what we have to do, and they'd be at practice or the next game and try to fulfil everything we wanted them to do," Popovich said. "So in a sense, it was one of the most -- this will sound strange -- more enjoyable years. It was fun in a way, not being on TV much and you just go to work and you don't worry about results other than players developing and a team understanding going forward." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Coach Gregg Popovich signs five-year extension deal with San Antonio Spurs

NBA top draft pick Victor Wembanyama played his long-awaited first game with the San Antonio Spurs on Friday, the 19-year-old Frenchman starting in an NBA Summer League contest against Charlotte.&nbsp;

A sellout crowd of 17,500 spectators jammed the Thomas &amp; Mack Arena to watch the 7-foot-4 (2.24m) prodigy, considered the NBA's greatest prospect since LeBron James arrived two decades ago, against other young prospects.

Wembanyama won the opening tip-off and had an assist on the first Spurs possession, but missed his first three shots -- a baseline jumper, an outside jumper and a layup attempt.

Wembanyama made his first basket in a Spurs uniform with 7:02 remaining in the first quarter, banking in an inside turnaround jumper in the lane while being fouled. He sank the free throw to complete a three-point play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tour-de-france-jasper-philipsen-denies-mark-cavendish-tour-stage-record-in-dramatic-sprint-613232">Tour de France: Jasper Philipsen denies Mark Cavendish Tour stage record in dramatic sprint</a>

His opponents, the Hornets, were the club that made forward Brandon Miller the second overall pick.

Already a star in the French league, Wembanyama was considered a runaway choice for the top pick when the Spurs won the NBA Draft Lottery in May and global attention has followed him even before San Antonio made him the first selection last month.

The Summer League, featuring young talent seeking NBA roster spots, offered Wembanyama his first game in a Spurs uniform, but more contests will be coming, including pre-season games and San Antonio's 2023-24 regular-season games starting in October.

There were cautionary notes for Wembanyama before he even took the court.

The third pick in the NBA Draft, Portland guard Scoot Henderson, suffered a right shoulder injury in the third quarter against Houston and didn't return to the game played just before the Spurs met the Hornets.

The fourth pick, Houston guard Amen Thompson, limped off in the final seconds of the fourth quarter, having grabbed his left ankle after falling to the court under the basket.

The Spurs will face Portland on Sunday.

Wembanyama's Spurs debut was played hours after Las Vegas police said no charges will be filed from an incident where guards protecting Wembanyama were involved in an incident with Britney Spears.

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NBA top draft pick Victor Wembanyama played his long-awaited first game with the San Antonio Spurs on Friday, the 19-year-old Frenchman starting in an NBA Summer League contest against Charlotte.

NBA top draft pick Victor Wembanyama played his long-awaited first game with the San Antonio Spurs on Friday, the 19-year-old Frenchman starting in an NBA Summer League contest against Charlotte. A sellout crowd of 17,500 spectators jammed the Thomas & Mack Arena to watch the 7-foot-4 (2.24m) prodigy, considered the NBA's greatest prospect since LeBron James arrived two decades ago, against other young prospects. Wembanyama won the opening tip-off and had an assist on the first Spurs possession, but missed his first three shots -- a baseline jumper, an outside jumper and a layup attempt. Wembanyama made his first basket in a Spurs uniform with 7:02 remaining in the first quarter, banking in an inside turnaround jumper in the lane while being fouled. He sank the free throw to complete a three-point play. ALSO READ: Tour de France: Jasper Philipsen denies Mark Cavendish Tour stage record in dramatic sprint His opponents, the Hornets, were the club that made forward Brandon Miller the second overall pick. Already a star in the French league, Wembanyama was considered a runaway choice for the top pick when the Spurs won the NBA Draft Lottery in May and global attention has followed him even before San Antonio made him the first selection last month. The Summer League, featuring young talent seeking NBA roster spots, offered Wembanyama his first game in a Spurs uniform, but more contests will be coming, including pre-season games and San Antonio's 2023-24 regular-season games starting in October. There were cautionary notes for Wembanyama before he even took the court. The third pick in the NBA Draft, Portland guard Scoot Henderson, suffered a right shoulder injury in the third quarter against Houston and didn't return to the game played just before the Spurs met the Hornets. The fourth pick, Houston guard Amen Thompson, limped off in the final seconds of the fourth quarter, having grabbed his left ankle after falling to the court under the basket. The Spurs will face Portland on Sunday. Wembanyama's Spurs debut was played hours after Las Vegas police said no charges will be filed from an incident where guards protecting Wembanyama were involved in an incident with Britney Spears. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Victor Wembanyama debuts for Spurs in NBA Summer League game against Charlotte

As per reports, Britney Spears was involved in a physical altercation with NBA star Victor Wembanyama’s security team while in Las Vegas on Wednesday, July 5.

Britney Spears slapped by NBA's Victor Wembanyama's Security?

Top NBA Draft pick Victor Wembanyama said on Friday he felt good after his first practice with the San Antonio Spurs and received a warm welcome that excited him for actual games. The 19-year-old Frenchman, considered the greatest NBA prospect since four-time Most Valuable Player LeBron James, joined his new teammates ahead of next week's start of Summer League contests.

"Felt really good," Wembanyama told reporters after the workout. "I had a warm welcome with the guys and I just can't wait."

The 7-foot-4 (2.24m) centre will join the Spurs in Las Vegas, where they are set to face the Charlotte Hornets next Friday and the Portland Trail Blazers on July 9. That would send Wembanyama against second overall pick Brandon Miller of Charlotte and third selection Scoot Henderson of Portland.

Wembanyama said he expects to play one or two games in Las Vegas.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neeraj-wins-second-straight-diamond-league-title-in-lausanne-610705">Neeraj wins second straight Diamond League title in Lausanne</a>

He's coming off a run to the French league finals that ended earlier this month and a decision not to play for France in the Basketball World Cup later this year.

Wembanyama said he felt even better about his selection by the Spurs after getting some time with other players on the court.

"I was told beforehand there was a good dynamic with the team on and off the court and I started to feel it already," Wembanyama said. "It just makes me even more certain that this is a good environment."

Wembanyama is just getting to know Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, the 74-year-old Hall of Fame legend who is the longest-tenured head coach in American sports after guiding the Spurs since 1996.

"I thought I would experience the yelling a bit earlier, but I haven't yet," Wembanyama said.

<h2>'Every day is different since I came here'</h2>

Popovich, a five-time NBA champion who guided US NBA stars to Tokyo Olympic gold, has mentored star big men David Robinson and Tim Duncan as well as French guard Tony Parker in their adjustments to the NBA.

"He works out more than I thought. Every morning he's there, running on the treadmill, lifting weights," Wembanyama said of Popovich. "Other than that, he really communicates a lot with me and he doesn't want me to make -- he wants to take care of me and wants me to avoid making some mistakes."

It has been a whirlwind arrival from France for the teen superstar, who was hailed in San Antonio by fans and the focus of attention for days at last week's NBA Draft in New York.

"Every day has been different ever since I stepped in the States," said Wembanyama. "I think I've spent more time with the media than on the court. I'm glad it's beginning to settle down a little bit."

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Top NBA Draft pick Victor Wembanyama said on Friday he felt good after his first practice with the San Antonio Spurs and received a warm welcome that excited him for actual games.

Top NBA Draft pick Victor Wembanyama said on Friday he felt good after his first practice with the San Antonio Spurs and received a warm welcome that excited him for actual games. The 19-year-old Frenchman, considered the greatest NBA prospect since four-time Most Valuable Player LeBron James, joined his new teammates ahead of next week's start of Summer League contests. "Felt really good," Wembanyama told reporters after the workout. "I had a warm welcome with the guys and I just can't wait." The 7-foot-4 (2.24m) centre will join the Spurs in Las Vegas, where they are set to face the Charlotte Hornets next Friday and the Portland Trail Blazers on July 9. That would send Wembanyama against second overall pick Brandon Miller of Charlotte and third selection Scoot Henderson of Portland. Wembanyama said he expects to play one or two games in Las Vegas. ALSO READ: Neeraj wins second straight Diamond League title in Lausanne He's coming off a run to the French league finals that ended earlier this month and a decision not to play for France in the Basketball World Cup later this year. Wembanyama said he felt even better about his selection by the Spurs after getting some time with other players on the court. "I was told beforehand there was a good dynamic with the team on and off the court and I started to feel it already," Wembanyama said. "It just makes me even more certain that this is a good environment." Wembanyama is just getting to know Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, the 74-year-old Hall of Fame legend who is the longest-tenured head coach in American sports after guiding the Spurs since 1996. "I thought I would experience the yelling a bit earlier, but I haven't yet," Wembanyama said. 'Every day is different since I came here' Popovich, a five-time NBA champion who guided US NBA stars to Tokyo Olympic gold, has mentored star big men David Robinson and Tim Duncan as well as French guard Tony Parker in their adjustments to the NBA. "He works out more than I thought. Every morning he's there, running on the treadmill, lifting weights," Wembanyama said of Popovich. "Other than that, he really communicates a lot with me and he doesn't want me to make -- he wants to take care of me and wants me to avoid making some mistakes." It has been a whirlwind arrival from France for the teen superstar, who was hailed in San Antonio by fans and the focus of attention for days at last week's NBA Draft in New York. "Every day has been different ever since I stepped in the States," said Wembanyama. "I think I've spent more time with the media than on the court. I'm glad it's beginning to settle down a little bit." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NBA: Victor Wembanyama gets warm welcome in first practice with San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs' latest draft pick Victor Wembanyama has been in the thick of things since he landed in the USA on Monday, June 19. Wembanyama first threw a ceremonial pitch in New York before becoming the centre of attraction during 2023 NBA Draft. The French prodigy was the no. 1 draft pick this year.

Following the draft, the player arrived in San Antonio on Friday and hundreds of fans welcomed their potential new hero. Wembanyama, along with Spurs' only other draft pick and fellow Frenchman Sidy Cissoko (no. 44 overall), were taken to the team dinner same day along with San Antonio legends Sean Elliott, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and David Robinson.

The draft picks were then introduced officially&nbsp;at an event on Saturday following which they attended a press conference at the AT&amp;T Center.

"Probably in a couple hours, I learned more about the NBA than my whole life before that," Wembanyama said at the news conference. "It's so comforting to see these people who are so important to the city of San Antonio and the franchise are such great people and generous. They genuinely wanted to share their experience. I feel like they've already started to take great care of me. It's so important to be in a position where it's so comfortable."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-chicago-bulls-lonzo-ball-expected-to-miss-out-entire-upcoming-season-608234">Chicago Bulls' Lonzo Ball expected to miss out entire upcoming season</a>

Wembanyama said that he's trying to be himself as a basketball player but trying to be open to learning at the same time. The no. 1 draft pick also said that he thinks he can give back the love people have shown him off the court by being the best.

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"People have been showing me love...I think I can give all of this back to the fans, the community, the franchise, and the city." 
 
Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/vicw_32?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vicw_32</a>'s full Rookie Press Conference 🎥 <a href="https://t.co/SulvKbBRc3">https://t.co/SulvKbBRc3</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vj8c1PCvKa">pic.twitter.com/Vj8c1PCvKa</a>
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Spurs general manager Brian Wright, who was also there to welcome his future key player, addressed him during the press conference before opening up the the podium for the questions.

"I wanted to say to you directly, we're excited to grow with you, support you, challenge you -- especially coach [Gregg Popovich] -- on your journey through life and basketball," Wright said. "Your talent is obvious. But as we got to know you, the maturity, the approach, the character, it let us know how special of a young man you are."

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San Antonio Spurs' latest draft pick Victor Wembanyama has been in the thick of things since he landed in the USA on Monday, June 19. Wembanyama first threw a ceremonial pitch in New York before becoming the centre of attraction during 2023 NBA Draft.

San Antonio Spurs' latest draft pick Victor Wembanyama has been in the thick of things since he landed in the USA on Monday, June 19. Wembanyama first threw a ceremonial pitch in New York before becoming the centre of attraction during 2023 NBA Draft. The French prodigy was the no. 1 draft pick this year. Following the draft, the player arrived in San Antonio on Friday and hundreds of fans welcomed their potential new hero. Wembanyama, along with Spurs' only other draft pick and fellow Frenchman Sidy Cissoko (no. 44 overall), were taken to the team dinner same day along with San Antonio legends Sean Elliott, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and David Robinson. The draft picks were then introduced officially at an event on Saturday following which they attended a press conference at the AT&T Center. "Probably in a couple hours, I learned more about the NBA than my whole life before that," Wembanyama said at the news conference. "It's so comforting to see these people who are so important to the city of San Antonio and the franchise are such great people and generous. They genuinely wanted to share their experience. I feel like they've already started to take great care of me. It's so important to be in a position where it's so comfortable." Also Read: Chicago Bulls' Lonzo Ball expected to miss out entire upcoming season Wembanyama said that he's trying to be himself as a basketball player but trying to be open to learning at the same time. The no. 1 draft pick also said that he thinks he can give back the love people have shown him off the court by being the best. "People have been showing me love...I think I can give all of this back to the fans, the community, the franchise, and the city." Watch @vicw_32's full Rookie Press Conference 🎥 https://t.co/SulvKbBRc3 pic.twitter.com/Vj8c1PCvKa — San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) June 24, 2023 × Spurs general manager Brian Wright, who was also there to welcome his future key player, addressed him during the press conference before opening up the the podium for the questions. "I wanted to say to you directly, we're excited to grow with you, support you, challenge you -- especially coach [Gregg Popovich] -- on your journey through life and basketball," Wright said. "Your talent is obvious. But as we got to know you, the maturity, the approach, the character, it let us know how special of a young man you are." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Spurs' no. 1 draft pick Victor Wembanyama feeling 'comfortable' in San Antonio

France's Victor Wembanyama was chosen with the top pick in the NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, sparking wild celebrations as the Texas club reveled in landing the gifted teenager seen as a once-in-a-generation talent. The 7ft 4in (2.24m) 19-year-old hugged family members as the Spurs confirmed a decision which had been a mere formality ever since San Antonio were handed the No.1 selection in the Draft last month.

"Just accomplishing something that I've been dreaming about my whole life," Wembanyama said after his No.1 status was announced by NBA commissioner Adam Silver at the Barclays Center in New York. "Hearing that sentence from Adam Silver, I've dreamed of it so much - I've gotta cry," he added.

Wembanyama is widely regarded as a transformational talent, who arrives in the NBA as the most coveted No. 1 pick since LeBron James entered the league in 2003. 
In San Antonio, Spurs fans packed into the team's 19,000-capacity AT&amp;T Center to watch the draft ceremony on a giant screen and roared with delight as Wembanyama's selection was confirmed.

Celebrations also erupted in the streets of the Texas city, with fans honking car horns in celebration of Wembanyama's selection.&nbsp;

"My message to them is I'm going to give 100 percent, make all that's in my power to make this franchise win, to have impact on the franchise and the fan base and the community," Wembanyama said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-barcelona-kick-off-title-defence-at-getafe-to-host-real-madrid-in-first-el-clasico-on-october-29-607481">La Liga: Barcelona kick off title defence at Getafe; to host Real Madrid in first El Clasico on October 29</a>

Wembanyama has cut a relaxed figure since arriving in the United States earlier this week, brushing off the soaring hype that has surged in the build-up to the draft.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Frenchman, wearing a dark green suit, happily signed autographs for fans in the minutes before the draft ceremony got under way.

In an interview with ESPN before his selection, Wembanyama said he was relishing the challenge of being a star both on and off the court.

<h2>- More than basketball -</h2>

"I know I can bring so much more than just basketball to a franchise," Wembanyama said. "My goal is always going to be to win titles, obviously. But also to the community, the franchise, to the fan base I know I can bring so much more."

Wembanyama will begin his NBA career under the watchful eye of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, the widely revered 74-year-old who has led San Antonio to five NBA Championships since taking over in 1996.

"We're thrilled that we're able to bring Victor on board," Popovich said at a press conference in San Antonio on Thursday. "Anybody would be excited about getting the number one pick. I'm very excited. You don't want me to jump and down, or put on a show do you? I'd do a somersault but I'd be out for three months."

Popovich meanwhile brushed off invitations to compare Wembanyama with some of the greats of NBA history.

"I don't compare players, that'll never happen," Popovich said. "He's Victor -- and that's who I want him to be, and that's who myself and my staff will coach."

Wembanyama meanwhile earned a congratulatory message from France's President Emmanuel Macron.

"You're already making us dream...no doubt about it: you'll change the game," Macron wrote on Twitter.

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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Victor Wembanyama, the first Frenchman to be the first pick in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAdraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAdraft</a>! 
 
You're already making us dream, <a href="https://twitter.com/vicw_32?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Vicw_32</a>. No doubt about it: you'll change the game! <a href="https://t.co/OagBcGqDYX">pic.twitter.com/OagBcGqDYX</a>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1672069263392161792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

With his potentially dominant blend of size and skill, Wembanyama has already drawn a legion of admirers across the NBA before even setting foot in the league.

LeBron James says Wembanyama's skillset makes him less a "unicorn" and "more like an alien."

"No one has ever seen someone as tall as he is and as fluid and as graceful as he is on the floor," James said last year.&nbsp;

"He's for sure a generational talent."

If Wembanyama manages to live up to the hype, he could conceivably be one of the faces of the NBA for years to come, with the likes of stars such as James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant all well into the final phase of their playing careers.

NBA officials, meanwhile, say there is already evidence of a "Wembanyama effect", citing spikes on streaming platforms and social media.

"Victor is an incredibly promising young player who seemingly has all the attributes of a true game-changer," NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum said.

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France's Victor Wembanyama was chosen with the top pick in the NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, sparking wild celebrations as the Texas club reveled in landing the gifted teenager seen as a once-in-a-generation talent.

France's Victor Wembanyama was chosen with the top pick in the NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, sparking wild celebrations as the Texas club reveled in landing the gifted teenager seen as a once-in-a-generation talent. The 7ft 4in (2.24m) 19-year-old hugged family members as the Spurs confirmed a decision which had been a mere formality ever since San Antonio were handed the No.1 selection in the Draft last month. "Just accomplishing something that I've been dreaming about my whole life," Wembanyama said after his No.1 status was announced by NBA commissioner Adam Silver at the Barclays Center in New York. "Hearing that sentence from Adam Silver, I've dreamed of it so much - I've gotta cry," he added. Wembanyama is widely regarded as a transformational talent, who arrives in the NBA as the most coveted No. 1 pick since LeBron James entered the league in 2003. In San Antonio, Spurs fans packed into the team's 19,000-capacity AT&T Center to watch the draft ceremony on a giant screen and roared with delight as Wembanyama's selection was confirmed. Celebrations also erupted in the streets of the Texas city, with fans honking car horns in celebration of Wembanyama's selection. "My message to them is I'm going to give 100 percent, make all that's in my power to make this franchise win, to have impact on the franchise and the fan base and the community," Wembanyama said. ALSO READ: La Liga: Barcelona kick off title defence at Getafe; to host Real Madrid in first El Clasico on October 29 Wembanyama has cut a relaxed figure since arriving in the United States earlier this week, brushing off the soaring hype that has surged in the build-up to the draft. On Thursday, the Frenchman, wearing a dark green suit, happily signed autographs for fans in the minutes before the draft ceremony got under way. In an interview with ESPN before his selection, Wembanyama said he was relishing the challenge of being a star both on and off the court. - More than basketball - "I know I can bring so much more than just basketball to a franchise," Wembanyama said. "My goal is always going to be to win titles, obviously. But also to the community, the franchise, to the fan base I know I can bring so much more." Wembanyama will begin his NBA career under the watchful eye of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, the widely revered 74-year-old who has led San Antonio to five NBA Championships since taking over in 1996. "We're thrilled that we're able to bring Victor on board," Popovich said at a press conference in San Antonio on Thursday. "Anybody would be excited about getting the number one pick. I'm very excited. You don't want me to jump and down, or put on a show do you? I'd do a somersault but I'd be out for three months." Popovich meanwhile brushed off invitations to compare Wembanyama with some of the greats of NBA history. "I don't compare players, that'll never happen," Popovich said. "He's Victor -- and that's who I want him to be, and that's who myself and my staff will coach." Wembanyama meanwhile earned a congratulatory message from France's President Emmanuel Macron. "You're already making us dream...no doubt about it: you'll change the game," Macron wrote on Twitter. Victor Wembanyama, the first Frenchman to be the first pick in the #NBAdraft! You're already making us dream, @Vicw_32. No doubt about it: you'll change the game! pic.twitter.com/OagBcGqDYX — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) June 23, 2023 × With his potentially dominant blend of size and skill, Wembanyama has already drawn a legion of admirers across the NBA before even setting foot in the league. LeBron James says Wembanyama's skillset makes him less a "unicorn" and "more like an alien." "No one has ever seen someone as tall as he is and as fluid and as graceful as he is on the floor," James said last year. "He's for sure a generational talent." If Wembanyama manages to live up to the hype, he could conceivably be one of the faces of the NBA for years to come, with the likes of stars such as James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant all well into the final phase of their playing careers. NBA officials, meanwhile, say there is already evidence of a "Wembanyama effect", citing spikes on streaming platforms and social media. "Victor is an incredibly promising young player who seemingly has all the attributes of a true game-changer," NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

San Antonio Spurs pick one-in-a-generation talent Victor Wembanyama in NBA Draft

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