The Toronto Raptors displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming a significant deficit and a dominant performance from San Antonio Spurs’ rookie standout Victor Wembanyama, to secure their first road victory this season with a thrilling 123-116 win on Sunday.
Scottie Barnes emerged as the driving force for the Raptors, contributing 30 points and 11 rebounds, with 17 of those points coming in the pivotal fourth quarter.
Dennis Schroder and O.G. Anunoby were also instrumental, each tallying 24 points, ensuring the Raptors ended the Spurs’ two-game winning streak.
Despite the efforts of the Spurs’ Keldon Johnson, who recorded 26 points, and Zach Collins, who notched 21 points and 11 rebounds, the Raptors’ resilient performance proved insurmountable for San Antonio.
Wembanyama, the standout for the Spurs, demonstrated his prowess with 20 points, nine rebounds, and an impressive five blocked shots, falling just shy of a double-double in an intense battle against the Raptors.
The Spurs, coming off consecutive thrilling victories in Phoenix, were unable to maintain their momentum against the resolute Raptors.
Wembanyama’s defensive prowess was on display, evident in his timely blocks and formidable presence in the paint, challenging the Raptors throughout the game.
The Raptors’ tenacity shone through in the final quarter, outscoring the Spurs 23-10, led by Barnes’ clutch 3-pointers and impactful dunks, ultimately leading to their impressive comeback and overtime victory.
The absence of starting guard Devin Vassell, who sustained a strained groin in the first half of the game against Phoenix, was felt keenly by the Spurs, affecting their rhythm and defensive stability.
Jakob Poeltl’s commendable performance, including 16 points and 10 rebounds, was notable as he made a strong return to San Antonio, having been traded back to Toronto in February 2019 after the initial trade that sent Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors.
