Anthony Davis shone with 37 points and 10 rebounds, propelling the Los Angeles Lakers to a narrow 122-119 victory over the San Antonio Spurs during Wednesday’s NBA action, extending the Spurs’ record-breaking losing streak to 18 games.
“We were sloppy and tried to do things quickly,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “We did nothing the basketball gods would be happy about (in the first half). In the second half, they competed and executed to win. I’m glad about that. I want to see how it carries over to Friday.”
Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama stood out for San Antonio, amassing 30 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocks, becoming the first rookie since Tim Duncan in 1998 to achieve such a feat in a game. Despite his success, Wembanyama emphasized the importance of team victories.
“I don’t think it comes down to set play or tactics or nothing,” Wembanyama said. “I think it’s like playing hard and playing smart. In the first half, we had neither of those. At least if we’re not making shots or if we can’t get to the basket on offense, we need to get stops.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The Lakers faced a challenge with LeBron James sidelined due to a calf injury, missing the first of two consecutive games against the Spurs. The Lakers also nearly lost Davis in the game’s early moments when he injured his ankle, but he remained determined to contribute to his team’s success.
“Giving my team a chance to win,” Davis said. “I know when I’m on the floor playing, my team has a higher chance of winning than me being out because of my presence defensively and my presence offensively. We’re trying to win basketball games.”
Despite trailing by 20 points in the fourth quarter, the Spurs, led by Wembanyama, rallied back. Wembanyama’s 3-pointer and free throws in the final moments significantly narrowed the Lakers’ lead. However, he fouled out in the closing seconds, marking the first disqualification of his career.
“I think it’s going to look better when we win,” Wembanyama said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Lakers coach Darvin Ham praised Wembanyama’s relentless competitive spirit, acknowledging his crucial role in the Spurs’ near-comeback.
“(Wembanyama) doesn’t stop competing,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. “When the game was hanging in the balance, he made some big plays for them.”
Keldon Johnson contributed 28 points for San Antonio, and Malaki Branham added 16. The Spurs showed improved aggression and execution in the second half, as noted by coach Gregg Popovich, who looked forward to seeing how this momentum would carry into their next game.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The Lakers, meanwhile, saw significant contributions from Taurean Prince with 17 points, Austin Reaves with 15, and D’Angelo Russell, who recorded 12 points and 10 assists. Coach Ham recognized the need for improvement despite the win, acknowledging the Spurs’ strong finish.
Davis was dominant after his initial injury scare, especially in the first half, where he scored 24 points, including a powerful dunk over Wembanyama.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Wembanyama had his moments of brilliance, including a spin move for a slam dunk against Davis. His performance in the game’s closing stages, with blocks and dunks, highlighted his potential and impact as the number one draft pick.
Both teams are set to face each other again soon, with the Spurs looking to break their losing streak and the Lakers aiming to build on their victory.
