Spurs Defeat Rockets 121–110 in NBA Cup Opener
Strong Scoring from Barnes and Wembanyama
Harrison Barnes recorded 24 points, while Julian Champagnie and Victor Wembanyama each added 22 as the San Antonio Spurs topped the Houston Rockets 121–110 on Friday night in their NBA Cup opener.
Kevin Durant led Houston with 24 points, and Alperen Sengun contributed 22, but the Rockets’ five-game winning streak came to an end.
Key Moments in the Game
Barnes sealed the victory by sinking two free throws and finishing a breakaway dunk following a midcourt steal with just 12 seconds left on the clock.
Champagnie made a major impact in the final quarter, scoring nine points and converting six of 13 attempts from beyond the arc. He also secured a crucial offensive rebound and recovered a loose ball on defense when the Spurs led 115–108.
Defensive Pressure on Wembanyama
The Rockets’ defense targeted Wembanyama early. Guards Josh Okogie and Reed Sheppard repeatedly pressured him, forcing him off his spots and holding him to four points on 2-of-6 shooting in the first half.
Momentum Shift Before Halftime
San Antonio closed the first half with a decisive 12–0 run, benefiting from five Houston turnovers in the final two minutes. Devin Vassell drilled a three-pointer, and Stephon Castle converted a three-point play during the surge.
The run began after Durant was called for his third personal foul for pushing Barnes to the floor.
Quote
“Barnes scored the game's final four points on a pair of free throws and a breakaway dunk after a steal at midcourt with 12 seconds remaining.”
Author’s Summary
San Antonio’s balanced offense and clutch defense paved the way for a confident 121–110 win over Houston, ending the Rockets’ winning streak in the NBA Cup opener.