San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson addressed the team’s late-game lapses after a 126-123 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves Saturday at Frost Bank Center.
“That part is extremely disappointing and that part has been I think what has crept in at times and been our biggest thorn in our sign this year which has just been at times some nonchalantness because we don’t have some of the depth of experience history wisdom runs on the board accomplishments to refer to when times get really tough,” Johnson said, acknowledging the team’s lapse allowed Minnesota back into the game from 25 points down.
He described the Timberwolves as a challenging opponent when given momentum. “We let them get back into the game, and they are a tough group especially when you let them get going like that,” Johnson said.
The Spurs coach praised his team’s response down the stretch. “We finally had some physicality plays…defensively gave enough resistance without fouling, some rebounding, some catches, some passes, creating leads, a lot of the little things that go into the shot-making,” he explained.
Victor Wembanyama’s dominant performance stood out for Johnson. “Dominant. He obviously got going and made a lot of shots…When we stay true to the process, you then start seeing guys’ individual talent pop off the page.”
Johnson highlighted Wembanyama’s competitive edge against Anthony Edwards in the fourth quarter. “Vic has proven in his young career that he embraces those moments and wants the basketball and is looking for opportunities. He obviously did that tonight,” Johnson said.
De’Aaron Fox also drew praise for his energy and versatility. “He had to play almost 37 minutes and guard quite a bit…so I thought he was great tonight, and we needed every second he was out there,” Johnson said.
The Spurs’ second-quarter explosion was key, scoring 48 points on 57 percent shooting, the franchise’s highest-scoring quarter since 1987. Wembanyama scored 23 points in the first half, including 3-for-5 from three-point range.
Despite Minnesota’s late surge, led by Anthony Edwards’ 55 points, San Antonio’s balance held up. Keldon Johnson added 20 off the bench, while Wembanyama secured a critical offensive rebound in the final seconds to seal the win.
Johnson concluded with a focus on growth and discipline for his young team. “We have to overly respect the process, the details, and playing the right way…when we do that, we give ourselves a good chance,” he said.
The Spurs improved to 28-13, tied for second in the Western Conference, while the Timberwolves fell to 27-15, remaining fourth. San Antonio hosts the Jazz Monday, and Minnesota travels to Utah Tuesday.
