Wembanyama Powers Spurs to 126-97 Game 5 Rout as 27-Point Night Puts Wolves on Brink
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 13
Wembanyama Powers Spurs to 126-97 Game 5 Rout as 27-Point Night Puts Wolves on Brink
14 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 13
Victor Wembanyama posted 27 points, 17 rebounds, five assists and three blocks as San Antonio beat Minnesota 126-97 in Game 5, taking control early and never trailing after the opening minutes.
His response came after a Game 4 ejection that nearly brought a suspension; Wembanyama erupted for 18 first-quarter points and six rebounds, helping the Spurs shoot 53% and build a lead that reached 30.
Minnesota briefly tied the game at 61 with a 14-2 run to open the third quarter, but San Antonio's defense answered every push and restored a double-digit cushion for good.
Julius Randle's slump deepened despite a late 17-point, 10-rebound line—he was 2-for-12 through three quarters—while Anthony Edwards got only five first-half shots and Rudy Gobert finished with four points.
Game 6 shifts to Minnesota on Friday, with the Timberwolves needing a sharper offensive showing from Randle and more support across the lineup to keep their season alive.
Is Wembanyama's historic dominance enough to overcome San Antonio's inexperience and close out the series?
With Julius Randle faltering, what radical changes must the Timberwolves make to survive Game 6?