Victor Wembanyama scored 40 points and grabbed 15 rebounds to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 125-92 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Wednesday’s season opener at American Airlines Center.
Dylan Harper contributed 15 points off the bench, while Stephon Castle added 22 points, helping San Antonio control the game from start to finish. Wembanyama set a Spurs record for most points in a season opener and added three blocks.
The Spurs built an early lead with a 13-0 run late in the first half, highlighted by Wembanyama’s reverse dunk and jumper that forced Anthony Davis into foul trouble. San Antonio’s precision on both ends left the Mavericks scrambling.
Dallas’ top pick Cooper Flagg struggled in his NBA debut, scoring 10 points and grabbing 10 rebounds while failing to score until the first possession of the second half.
Anthony Davis finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds in the absence of Kyrie Irving, who remains out while recovering from ACL surgery.
San Antonio dominated the paint and controlled the boards, limiting the Mavericks’ scoring opportunities. The Spurs’ bench provided depth and stability, giving the starters ample support throughout the game.
Wembanyama’s return from deep vein thrombosis marked his first regular-season action since February, and the 7-foot-5 forward immediately displayed the athleticism and skill that made him the top overall pick in 2023.
The Mavericks struggled to find offensive rhythm, with key contributors like Dereck Lively II and Klay Thompson unable to slow the Spurs’ onslaught. San Antonio’s combination of size, shooting, and defensive pressure proved too much for the home team.
San Antonio will travel to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, while Dallas hosts the Washington Wizards to continue its five-game homestand.
