Wembanyama and Spurs rebound to level against Timberwolves in NBA Playoffs | Basketball
Spurs Dominate Timberwolves, Even Series at 1-1; Knicks Defeat 76ers to Take 2-0 Lead
Published May 7, 2026
SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Spurs evened their Western Conference semifinal series against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a commanding 133-95 victory on Wednesday night. Victor Wembanyama contributed significantly with 19 points and 15 rebounds, as the Spurs outperformed the Timberwolves in the final three quarters of play.
San Antonio surged ahead in the second quarter, expanding a seven-point lead from the first quarter to a 24-point advantage by halftime. The Spurs continued to extend their margin, leading 98-63 after three periods. Julian Champagnie was key in this stretch, scoring all 12 of his points in the quarter, including four three-pointers.
The Spurs’ lead ballooned to as much as 47 points in the final quarter. Stephon Castle led the Spurs in scoring with 21 points, while De’Aaron Fox added 16. Other notable contributions came from Harrison Barnes with 12 points, Dylan Harper with 11, Devin Vassell with 10 points, and Keldon Johnson, who contributed 10 rebounds.
Despite making two three-pointers, Wembanyama’s shooting from beyond the arc remains a concern, as he is shooting just 2-of-15 in the series. The second-seeded Spurs have not lost consecutive games since January 11.
Wembanyama reflected on the team’s improvement from Game 1 to Game 2, emphasizing the importance of early intensity and effective ball movement.
“Of course, we’re going to keep doubling up on what worked and the few things that didn’t. We’re going to erase them,” he said. “Minnesota is an experienced team – we know they’re going to respond.”
Game 3 of the best-of-seven series is scheduled for Friday in Minneapolis.
Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks secured a crucial 108-102 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, taking a 2-0 lead in their semifinal series. Jalen Brunson was instrumental, scoring 26 points, including eight in the fourth quarter.
With the victory, the Knicks will head to Philadelphia for Game 3, scheduled for Friday night.
“Being down 2-0 after coming back to win in the first round, I think it’s more of a challenge,” said 76ers coach Nick Nurse, referring to Philadelphia’s previous Playoff experience.
In spite of foul troubles, Karl-Anthony Towns delivered a strong performance for Philadelphia, registering 20 points and 10 rebounds in just 27 minutes. The game featured 14 ties and 25 lead changes, but the Knicks closed strong, ending with a 12-3 run.
OG Anunoby left the game in the final minutes with a right leg injury, finishing with 24 points. Mikal Bridges contributed an additional 18 points. The Knicks have now won five consecutive games, while the 76ers struggled in the fourth quarter, shooting just 4-of-19.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 26 points. Philadelphia’s Joel Embiid was sidelined due to ankle and hip injuries.
The 76ers will host Games 3 and 4 on Saturday and Sunday.
