For Gregg Popovich, it is nothing more, nothing less than “ our greatest victory“. Last night, in the extreme match of the Western Conference, the Spurs created the feat of winning against the Wolves after a sublime 4th quarter. Back-to-back, San Antonio amazed with its accuracy in important moments, and Victor Wembanyama has eyes that shine.
“I don’t know if it’s the most beautiful victory, but it’s definitely beautiful” estimates the French pivot of Spurs in response to Popovich's comments. “I think we have to be proud of what we did and get used to these feelings in order to do it again.”
The young Spurs can be particularly proud of this 4th quarter, where they turned the situation around, and better managed the last possessions.
A victory acquired in defense
“Part of the job was putting shots and having guys take responsibility on the field,” replies Wembanyama, about this 4th quarter. “It was by remaining focused on defense and playing for each other that we managed to take control of the match. That was the key for us today. On the video, we will see magnificent moments.”
Even if the Spurs maintain restrictions on his playing time, he was there, in “money time”, to impose his 2m23 in the paint. He was the one defending Karl-Anthony Towns on the last possession. “I was told to leave my guy and prevent KAT from entering the station, which would have resulted in a mismatch. And it worked “, explains “Wemby”. We remember that against the Hornets, Towns came to impale the defense on the last possession. This time he chose the long shot. A double failure.
Playing time still limited
Personally, Wembanyama is doubly happy. Of course by the victory, but also by the increase in his playing time, now set at 30 minutes. But he also knows Popovich won't burn him.
“I feel pretty good, and I feel as good as I can. The season is very exhausting, there are a lot of matches. But I feel very lucky and very grateful that I physically feel like this. I couldn't ask for anything better.” he admits before talking about the definitive end of the restrictions. “I think it's something we have to watch in the next 15, 20, 30 games. But I think I probably won't play 45 minutes anytime soon. »
