Victor Wembanyama delivered a standout performance with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and six blocks as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 144-118 on Friday night. The victory snapped a two-game losing streak for San Antonio, which posted its highest point total of the season.
Despite 35 points and 13 rebounds from Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee struggled defensively, allowing 45 third-quarter points. Damian Lillard contributed 22 points, while Khris Middleton added 21 off the bench for the Bucks, who have now lost back-to-back games.
Wembanyama, fresh off his first All-Star selection, started slow with just two points in the opening quarter but quickly found his rhythm.
Keldon Johnson provided key scoring support with 24 points, while rookie Stephon Castle added 20. San Antonio shot 49% from the field and connected on 24 three-pointers, outpacing Milwaukee’s 32.4% shooting from beyond the arc.
Antetokounmpo made an early statement by dunking over Wembanyama, but the Spurs’ center responded by blocking two of his shots within 14 seconds. Wembanyama dominated defensively throughout the night, finishing with six rejections.
San Antonio took control in the third quarter, turning a one-point halftime lead into a commanding 20-point advantage. The team’s ball movement was instrumental, as they racked up 37 assists compared to Milwaukee’s 24.
Chris Paul, who finished with 12 points and nine assists, orchestrated the Spurs’ offense efficiently. Harrison Barnes added 16 points, while Devin Vassell and Tre Jones combined for 21. San Antonio’s bench contributed 52 points, with Julian Champagnie and Zach Collins knocking down crucial three-pointers.
Middleton was nearly perfect from the field for Milwaukee, shooting 8-for-9, including 3-for-4 from deep. Lillard struggled with efficiency, making just 6 of 17 shots, while the Bucks’ reserves failed to provide a significant spark.
The Spurs outscored the Bucks 74-47 in the second half, closing the game with a dominant fourth quarter. San Antonio also outrebounded Milwaukee 53-47 and controlled the paint with a 48-38 advantage in interior scoring.
Wembanyama’s performance further solidified his case as one of the most impactful rookies in recent NBA history. His ability to alter shots, stretch the floor, and anchor the defense has kept the Spurs competitive despite their 21-24 record.
Milwaukee, now 26-20, will look to regroup as they continue their road trip. The Bucks’ defensive struggles remain a concern, with opponents scoring 120 or more points in four of their last six games.
