Victor Wembanyama scored 40 points and grabbed 15 rebounds as the San Antonio Spurs routed the Dallas Mavericks 125-92 in Wednesday’s season opener at American Airlines Center. The 7-foot-5 forward also added three blocks, setting a Spurs record for points in a season opener.
After the game, Wembanyama reflected on his mindset and health, telling reporters, “I’m much more in control of myself. The mind, I’m not worried about because I saw what it’s like to be confronted with potentially losing a lot, whether it’s your career or your health, so I’m not taking this for granted anymore.”
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. Dylan Harper contributed 15 points off the bench, while Stephon Castle added 22, helping San Antonio dominate from start to finish.
Wembanyama addressed his improved mobility, saying, “I’m having more fun now that I’m not struggling to move as much, and I know I still need to get better, and I’m still going to get better.” His return marked his first regular-season action since February, following surgery for deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder.
Dallas struggled offensively, with top pick Cooper Flagg scoring 10 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in his NBA debut, failing to score until the first possession of the second half. Anthony Davis led the Mavericks with 22 points and 13 rebounds in the absence of Kyrie Irving, who remains sidelined recovering from ACL surgery.
San Antonio’s combination of size, shooting, and defensive pressure limited Dallas’ scoring opportunities. The Spurs controlled the paint and the boards, while the bench provided stability and depth, keeping the Mavericks off balance throughout the contest.
The Spurs will travel to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, while the Mavericks continue their five-game homestand against the Washington Wizards.
