The Minnesota Timberwolves fell 126-123 to the San Antonio Spurs Saturday at Frost Bank Center, with head coach Chris Finch emphasizing his team’s resilience.
“We fought great. I knew we’d come back. We’ve done it against this team time and again,” Finch said, highlighting Minnesota’s competitive spirit throughout the game.
Finch acknowledged the physical toll of a back-to-back schedule but refused to use it as an excuse. “Tires? We never complain about the schedule,” he said, emphasizing the focus on execution over fatigue.
Anthony Edwards drew high praise from his coach for his explosive performance. “Phenomenal. He got to the three-point line pretty easy…big shot after big shot. He was inspirational tonight,” Finch said.
The Timberwolves coach also reflected on Edwards’ fourth-quarter heroics. “In awe of all the talent that’s out there, the shot-making in the fourth quarter by both him and Wembanyama was pretty special,” Finch said.
Finch praised Victor Wembanyama as well, noting his rising impact. “He’s a hell of a player, getting better every time he steps out on the floor…particularly when he can shoot from the three-point line, very tough to cover.”
Minnesota’s ability to rally from deficits remains a key strength, Finch noted. “We’ve gotten behind a lot in games and come back…our defense and rebounding pick up and that really helps us. We were really good at the rim tonight.”
He also commented on the Spurs’ young guard, Stephon Castle. “He’s a hell of a player…strong, knows his game well, can really defend and does a lot of really good things. It’s going to help you win,” Finch said.
The Timberwolves were led by Edwards’ 55 points, including 26 in the fourth quarter, and Donte DiVincenzo’s late three-pointer briefly gave them the lead. De’Aaron Fox added 25 points and 12 assists, keeping Minnesota within striking distance.
San Antonio avoided a series sweep, with Wembanyama finishing with 39 points, nine rebounds, and a clutch offensive rebound in the closing seconds. Keldon Johnson contributed 20 points off the bench, helping seal the narrow victory.
The Spurs improved to 28-13, remaining tied for second in the Western Conference, while Minnesota fell to 27-15, still fourth in the West. The Timberwolves travel to Utah on Tuesday, and San Antonio hosts the Jazz Monday.
