Key Takeaways:
- Anthony Edwards converted a 3-foot runner with 16.8 seconds left as Minnesota overturned a 19-point deficit for a 104-103 victory over San Antonio
- Victor Wembanyama delivered 29 points, seven rebounds, and three steals in his return to San Antonio’s starting lineup, but was unable to score in the decisive moments
- Minnesota improved to 26-14 this season and is now 16-6 since Thanksgiving Day despite missing head coach Chris Finch due to illness
Match Analysis
On Sunday night in Minneapolis, the Minnesota Timberwolves overcame a steep 19-point deficit to secure a 104-103 win against the San Antonio Spurs, capped by Anthony Edwards banking in a critical 3-foot runner with 16.8 seconds remaining. The Timberwolves clawed back after a 16-0 start by the visitors, eventually taking their first lead at 100-98 courtesy of Edwards’ turnaround jumper with 2:19 left in the contest.
Shortly after, Harrison Barnes put San Antonio back in front with a three-pointer, setting the stage for a tense conclusion. It was Edwards who ultimately provided the heroics, delivering Minnesota the edge before their defence denied the Spurs on the final possessions.
🤯🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/XGhsrWZq0W
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 12, 2026
Player Performance
Edwards finished the contest with 23 points, spearheading the Timberwolves’ offensive charge. Naz Reid contributed a double-double, posting 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Donte DiVincenzo’s 19 points provided essential momentum as the Wolves rallied early in the third quarter. Julius Randle was pivotal both ends, recording 15 points, eight rebounds, and anchoring the decisive defensive play to contain Victor Wembanyama on San Antonio’s last possession.
For the Spurs, Wembanyama made an emphatic return to the starting lineup after a period of knee management, producing 29 points in 27 minutes alongside seven boards and three steals. Despite his impact, he struggled to shake off Randle’s defence and missed a contested 16-foot jumper with 6.6 seconds to play.
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Edwards | Minnesota Timberwolves | 23 | 2 | 3 |
| Naz Reid | Minnesota Timberwolves | 17 | 11 | 2 |
| Julius Randle | Minnesota Timberwolves | 15 | 8 | 4 |
| Donte DiVincenzo | Minnesota Timberwolves | 19 | 9 | 7 |
| Victor Wembanyama | San Antonio Spurs | 29 | 7 | 1 |
Statistics & Impact
This result marked the Timberwolves’ 26th win of the campaign, taking their record to 26-14 and reinforcing an impressive 16-6 run since Thanksgiving Day. The Timberwolves found resilience despite the absence of head coach Chris Finch, who was sidelined by illness; assistant coach Micah Nori directed proceedings from the bench. The team overcame an early drought, not making a field goal until 4:39 into the opening quarter.
Wembanyama, still under a minutes restriction following a hyperextended knee sustained on 31 December, stood out in his limited time but could not overcome Minnesota’s late defensive efforts. Rudy Gobert, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, was overshadowed by his French compatriot’s all-around display, yet Minnesota’s collective defence ultimately proved decisive.
Upcoming Fixtures
The Spurs will travel to face Oklahoma City on Tuesday night, while the Timberwolves are set to visit Milwaukee on the same evening.
