SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Spurs showed they can handle both physicality and pressure in a 114-103 win over the Detroit Pistons Monday night, in a matchup some are calling a potential NBA Finals preview.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 21 points, 17 rebounds and six blocks, while Devin Vassell added 28 points, hitting seven 3-pointers. Wembanyama admitted he struggled with his shot, going 6 of 16, but his teammates stepped up with three other players scoring in double figures. The Spurs made 18 of 40 shots from beyond the arc.
“It’s definitely a night where we confirmed progression and confirmed potential as well,” Wembanyama said. “That was a good test.”
The Spurs have now won nine straight games, trailing only defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference standings. Detroit, winners of five consecutive games prior to Monday, is seeking its first playoff series win since 2008.
Tempers flared early in the game after an altercation involving Cade Cunningham, Keldon Johnson, and Jalen Duren, resulting in technical fouls. Wembanyama said he welcomed the Pistons’ physical “bully ball” style.
“They are going to test your toughness,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said. “Detroit just toes the line. I don’t think they cross it.”
The Pistons will host Oklahoma City on Wednesday, while the Spurs continue their strong home stretch.
