Spurs Take 3-2 Lead in NBA Playoff Series with Rout of Wolves

San Antonio Spurs Defeat Minnesota Timberwolves 126-97 in Game 5

The San Antonio Spurs secured a 3-2 lead in their Western Conference semifinal series against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 126-97 victory on Tuesday. Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs, scoring 27 points and grabbing 17 rebounds.

Wembanyama returned to action after being ejected in Game 4 due to an altercation with an opponent. He stated that he was anxious to return to the court but acknowledged that his emotions may have affected his performance.

The Spurs took an early lead, building a 24-9 advantage at one point in the first quarter. However, they went cold and settled for a 12-point advantage at halftime. The Timberwolves rallied in the third quarter, tying the game at 61-61 before the Spurs ran off 30 of the final 42 points to take a 91-73 lead into the fourth quarter.

The Spurs maintained their margin throughout the fourth quarter, with Keldon Johnson adding 21 points from the bench. De’Aaron Fox scored 18 points, while Stephon Castle hit for 17 and Devin Vassell and Dylan Harper tallied 12 points each.

Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 20 points, followed by Jaden McDaniels and Julius Randle with 17 points apiece. Ayo Dosunmu had 16 points, and Naz Reid finished with 12.

Coach Mitch Johnson praised his team’s discipline, execution, and physicality, saying that it was a collective effort to secure the win. The Spurs will look to close out the series in Game 6 on Thursday.

Source: Al Jazeera