Wemby Helps San Antonio Spurs Hold Off Detroit Pistons In Top-Tier Clash

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Last Updated:February 24, 2026, 11:43 IST

Victor Wembanyama registered six blocks and an astounding seventeen rebounds as the Spurs got the better of the Pistons in a game that ended 114-103.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama cannot grab a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Detroit Pistons, Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama cannot grab a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Detroit Pistons, Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Victor Wembanyama spearheaded a defensive masterclass as the San Antonio Spurs outperformed the Detroit Pistons 114-103 on Monday in a heated battle between the NBA’s two most in-form teams.

Ranked second in the Western Conference, the Spurs faced a tough challenge from the East-leading Pistons, who came into the game with a five-game winning streak.

Defenses dominated the first meeting of the season between these teams, with the 7-foot-5 Wembanyama recording six blocks and 17 rebounds, which powered transitions as the Spurs pulled away in the later stages.

Despite the Pistons’ inconsistent shooting, Devin Vassell led the Spurs’ offense, scoring 28 points, including seven three-pointers – matching Detroit’s team total.

“They tried to impose their will. We tried to get out on transition, keep getting stops, find an open man. That’s what we did," said Vassell.

The Spurs started strong, racing to a 12-point lead from the tip-off. However, they were trailing by the end of the first quarter, setting the stage for a fiercely contested and back-and-forth game.

Late in the second quarter, Cade Cunningham knocked Stephon Castle to the floor, provoking Spurs teammate Keldon Johnson, who received a technical foul for retaliating.

Despite this, the Pistons’ defense kept them in the game, putting significant pressure on Wembanyama, who struggled to make an offensive impact initially.

San Antonio held a narrow lead at half-time, and the game became even tighter in the third quarter.

Spurs guard Dylan Harper was knocked off the court, landing face-first into a cameraman.

As the game progressed, Wembanyama made several spectacular blocks and rebounds, helping the Spurs to build a 15-point lead in the final quarter.

Jalen Duren led a late Pistons rally, finishing with 25 points, but it ultimately fizzled out as a resolute San Antonio saw out the game. Wembanyama ended with 21 points, and Julian Champagnie added 17.

“We all play for each other. We’re all super humble. All we want to do is win," said Vassell.

The hard-fought victory brings the Spurs to a 41-16 record, still trailing the West-leading defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are at 44-14.

(With Inputs From Agencies)

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First Published:

February 24, 2026, 11:43 IST

News sports nba Wemby Helps San Antonio Spurs Hold Off Detroit Pistons In Top-Tier Clash

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