Spurs Lose 125-110 to Pistons in I-35 Series Final Game
Without Wembanyama for the season due to a blood clot, San Antonio navigates an uncertain path forward
The San Antonio Spurs closed out their two-game stretch at Moody Center on Friday night with a 125-110 loss to the Detroit Pistons in the final matchup of the third annual I-35 Series. Despite a sold-out crowd and a strong second-quarter push, the Spurs struggled to keep pace with a Detroit team that capitalized on its defensive strengths.
The loss came one night after the Spurs edged out the Phoenix Suns 104-102 in a game that marked a homecoming of sorts for Kevin Durant, who played his college ball at the University of Texas. Friday’s contest, however, told a different story. San Antonio fell behind early, trailing 36-27 at the end of the first quarter. They managed to close the gap by halftime, going into the break down just one point at 63-62. But the Pistons took control in the third, outscoring the Spurs 38-18 and never relinquishing their lead.
Adjusting without Wembanyama
The game marked a tough transition for San Antonio, which is adjusting to life without Victor Wembanyama for the remainder of the season. The 7-foot-3½ Frenchman, who had been a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year and an All-NBA selection, was ruled out this week due to deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder. Under new league rules, his absence will prevent him from qualifying for end-of-season awards, a significant blow for the rising star.
“Obviously we feel that he’s not out there,” said De’Aaron Fox, the Spurs’ newly acquired point guard, after the game. “But whenever we are out there and not thinking about that, that’s where basketball being your sanctuary comes in.”
Fox, who was traded to San Antonio earlier this month in a multi-team deal with the Sacramento Kings, looked strong in his new role, providing stability in the backcourt. Meanwhile, rookie standout Castle, fresh off being named the Kia NBA Western Conference Rookie of the Month for January, is taking on a bigger role in Wembanyama’s absence.
A changing Spurs lineup
Chris Paul, a 19-year NBA veteran, continues to provide leadership for a Spurs team in flux. Despite the loss, Paul praised the I-35 Series and the energy inside Moody Center.
“This is really cool that the team does this, and the fans really come out and support,” Paul said. “I’m glad I got the chance to be a part of it.”
The I-35 Series, which brings Spurs home games to Austin, has continued to grow in popularity. Keldon Johnson, who spent time with the Austin Spurs in the G League before earning a spot in San Antonio’s rotation, said playing at Moody Center felt like a return home.
“This is where everything started for me,” Johnson said. “Being able to come out here and play in front of fans is definitely always special for me.”
Despite near-freezing temperatures, fans packed Moody Center and gathered outside Dell Plaza, where Austin-based musician Shakey Graves performed. Many attendees huddled around outdoor heaters after the game.
With Wembanyama out for the season and the team in transition, San Antonio faces an uphill battle moving forward.