The San Antonio Spurs are one win away from the Western Conference finals after a commanding 126-97 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Victor Wembanyama led the charge with 27 points, 17 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, bouncing back from his first career ejection in Game 4.
Wembanyama's Historic Performance
At 22 years old, Wembanyama became the third-youngest player in NBA history to record such numbers in a playoff game, trailing only Magic Johnson and Luka Doncic, according to the Associated Press. His dominant showing helped the Spurs take a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Key Contributions from Teammates
Keldon Johnson added 21 points, De'Aaron Fox scored 18, and Stephon Castle contributed 17 as San Antonio moved within a victory of facing the Oklahoma City Thunder in the conference finals. The Spurs can clinch the series with a win in Game 6 on Saturday in Minneapolis.
Timberwolves' Efforts Fall Short
Anthony Edwards finished with 20 points for Minnesota, but was held to eight in the first half. Julius Randle and Jaden McDaniels each added 17 points, but the Timberwolves could not overcome a slow start.
Physicality and Momentum Swings
Wembanyama returned after being ejected early in the second quarter of Minnesota's 114-109 Game 4 win for a flagrant foul 2 on Naz Reid. The physicality continued Wednesday, with Reid drawing a technical foul for shoving Wembanyama in the back during a free throw late in the second quarter. The confrontation seemed to energize Wembanyama, who scored 18 points in the first quarter on 6-of-8 shooting, including 2-of-3 from three-point range.
The Timberwolves opened the third quarter with a 14-2 run to tie the game at 61 after trailing by as many as 18 points in the first half. They also disrupted three alley-oop attempts intended for the 7-foot-4 Wembanyama. However, San Antonio regained control, highlighted by Johnson blocking Rudy Gobert's dunk attempt and converting a short jumper after battling Edwards under the basket.
Defensive Dominance
The Spurs held Minnesota under 100 points for the fifth time in 10 postseason games, showcasing their defensive prowess as they seek to advance to the Western Conference finals.
