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Wembanyama’s Fourth-Quarter Brilliance Lifts Spurs over Bulls in Chicago

Victor Wembanyama guarded by Nikola Vucevic

Key Takeaways:

  • Victor Wembanyama recorded 38 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 blocks in San Antonio’s 121-117 victory over Chicago
  • The Spurs secured their first win at United Center since 17 March 2021, marking a third straight victory
  • Wembanyama became the first player in NBA history to post at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 blocks, and 5 three-pointers in a single game

Match Analysis

Victor Wembanyama delivered a spellbinding performance on Monday night in Chicago, amassing 38 points – including 18 in the decisive fourth quarter – as the San Antonio Spurs came from behind to claim a 121-117 win over the Bulls. The result not only extended San Antonio’s winning streak to three games but also snapped their drought at United Center, having not won on the Bulls’ home court since 17 March 2021.

The 7-foot-4 centre was in imperious form throughout, contributing 12 rebounds and 5 blocks alongside a 6-for-11 display from beyond the arc. Wembanyama finished 11-for-19 from the field, anchoring the Spurs both offensively and defensively.

Historical Performance by Wembanyama

Wembanyama made NBA history with his dynamic all-around output. He became the first player in league history to register at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 blocks, and 5 three-pointers in a single contest. His impact was best felt in the fourth quarter, where he single-handedly erased a double-digit Bulls lead with a personal 10-0 scoring run.

San Antonio trailed 104-91 before Wembanyama sparked the comeback, hitting a fadeaway jumper and a critical three-pointer to reduce the margin to three with 7:05 to play. The Spurs then seized the initiative with a decisive late 10-0 run, featuring another pair of timely Wembanyama three-pointers and a pair of free throws from Stephon Castle, pushing the lead to 119-114 with just 18 seconds on the clock.

Player Contributions and Key Statistics

De’Aaron Fox contributed 21 points during his second appearance of the season for the Spurs. Stephon Castle registered a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists, while Luke Kornet added 16 points to round out the Spurs’ strong offensive showing.

For the Bulls, Kevin Huerter stepped into the starting five due to Josh Giddey’s absence with an ankle injury and tallied 23 points. Ayo Dosunmu and Tre Jones each provided 20 points, with Jalen Smith posting 11 points and 12 rebounds.

Momentum Shifts and Shooting Trends

The Bulls, who fell to a 5-1 home record with this defeat and have now lost four of their last five fixtures, surged ahead with a 10-2 run late in the third quarter, building a 95-85 advantage. Kevin Huerter extended their lead to 98-89 at the end of the third. However, cold shooting plagued Chicago in the final period, where they made just 28% (7-for-25) of their attempts, in contrast to the Spurs’ 43.5% (10-for-23) mark.

Looking Ahead

Next up, the Spurs will host Golden State on Wednesday in the first of two consecutive home encounters against the Warriors. Meanwhile, the Bulls will travel to face the Detroit Pistons, also on Wednesday night.


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