Dennis Schroder contributed 15 points and 12 assists, while Cam Thomas scored 25 points in the Brooklyn Nets’ 123-103 victory over the San Antonio Spurs during Saturday’s NBA action. This game marked Victor Wembanyama’s first visit to Barclays Center since being drafted first overall by the Spurs.
Schroder’s 12 assists were the most by a Nets player making his debut since James Harden’s 14 assists in 2021. The moment that captured the crowd’s attention was Schroder’s vehement reaction to not receiving a foul call after Wembanyama’s elbow struck him during a shot attempt, which led to Schroder intensifying the game’s competitiveness by fouling Wembanyama in protest.
“I’m glad we got the win; I think that’s the most important, but of course, the appreciation was there, and I love that the fans did it,” Schroder said. “Big-time for me.”
Despite scoring 21 points, Wembanyama, a 7-foot-3 talent from France, managed only four rebounds, adding to his challenges in adapting to the NBA’s demands. His performance remains a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season for the Spurs, who have now lost seven consecutive games and are positioned last in the Western Conference.
“He told me a little bit about it and so it’s not more complicated than that, it’s just hard to do,” Wembanyama said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Dennis Schroder, Brooklyn Nets, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The acquisition of Schroder from Toronto in exchange for Spencer Dinwiddie, who subsequently joined the Los Angeles Lakers, had an immediate impact. Nets coach Jacque Vaughn praised Schroder’s experience and ability to perform under pressure.
“He’s won games and played in high-level games, so for him to be out here on the floor and lead our group tonight, pretty impressive,” Vaughn said.
Nic Claxton also shone with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Playing as the starting point guard, Ben Simmons added 13 points for the Nets, contributing to a strong team performance that overcame the Spurs.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Dennis Schroder, Brooklyn Nets, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Keldon Johnson had 19 points, but the Spurs couldn’t overcome the Nets’ momentum, especially after a dynamic third quarter highlighted by Schroder’s strategic playmaking. The game featured intense moments, including Wembanyama’s back-to-back 3-pointers that briefly narrowed the gap, only for the Nets to extend their lead and secure the win with a mix of strategic plays and sheer determination.
As the Spurs look forward to their next game against the Toronto Raptors and the Nets prepare to host the Boston Celtics, both teams are focused on the future, with the Nets celebrating a strong addition to their roster and the Spurs navigating through a rebuilding phase.
