In a thrilling matchup on January 16, 2026, Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs managed to fend off a formidable challenge from Anthony Edwards, who scored a career-high 55 points for the Minnesota Timberwolves. The game concluded with a narrow 126-123 victory for the Spurs. This contest featured both players showcasing extraordinary talent, combining for a total of 94 points, marking the highest combined score by opposing No. 1 draft picks in the modern era.
Star Performances
Wembanyama led the Spurs with 39 points, delivering a strong performance despite the pressure from Edwards. Edwards, demonstrating remarkable resilience, contributed 26 points in the fourth quarter alone, which is the second-highest quarter score ever recorded by a Timberwolves player.
Game Highlights
- Wembanyama scored 20 points in the second quarter.
- The Spurs outscored the Timberwolves 48-22 in that quarter, their most prolific in nearly four decades.
- Wembanyama’s scoring in that game marked his best since a 40-point performance in the season opener.
- The Spurs built a 25-point lead before the Timberwolves made a late rally.
- Despite the loss, Edwards’ standout performance included shooting proficiency from all areas of the court.
Spurs coach Mitch Johnson acknowledged the Timberwolves’ capability to stage comebacks. This game was a reminder of their previous encounter, where the Spurs lost after leading early. The Spurs will need to address their late-game strategies as they move forward in the season.
Team Conditions
The Timberwolves were without starting center Rudy Gobert due to a left hip contusion, and forward Naz Reid left the game with a sore shoulder. These absences may have contributed to the challenges faced during the match.
Looking Ahead
Wembanyama expressed the team’s need for improvement, recognizing the nuances in their play style that require refinement. The Spurs aim to build on this victory while learning from their lapses. The focus remains on securing more consistent performances, particularly in crucial moments of the game.
This thrilling victory not only showcased the talent of Wembanyama but also highlighted the competitive spirit of Edwards, promising an exciting future for both players in the league.
