The San Antonio Spurs denied the Miami Heat a fourth-quarter comeback and are now 5-0 for the first time in franchise history. Anyone who heard Victor Wembanyama at the press conference after the Toronto Raptors win, probably knew deep down that he would deliver, but it took 12 lead changes and four ties to get there. Bam Adebayo was the best player on the floor in the first half and ended the night with 31 points, but Wemby overshadowed him in the second, mainly because of the edge in passing, rebounding and blocking for a total of 27 points, 18 rebounds 6 assists and 5 blocks.
A 5-0 record doesn’t mean they are the best team in the league or going to advance to win the title, but it could be an early sign that it will be a special year. On top of that, sometimes stopping to smell the roses is good for the soul.
Wembanyama rose for the lob like a great white shark bursting through the ocean’s surface for its prey. Despite Adebayo jumping early while fronting, no one had a chance to tip the pass or get a steal. As marvelous as this play was, the real MVP behind it was Devin Vassell, creating the overreaction on the baseline. His reaction to getting asked if he thought the pass was too high was priceless, too.
Wemby rejecting Davion Mitchell and taking the ball up court for a basket was next level. Seeing someone that big come down the fast lane must be how Indiana Jones felt at the beginning of Raiders of the Lost Ark when the boulder rolled at him. All Jaime Jaquez Jr. would have been able to do on that play is probably flop to sell a charge.
Who knows what Jaquez was thinking, believing he could challenge the league’s most prolific shot blocker in his territory? The play was guarded well, and he only had one decent read to make, which was passing to the left corner because the Spurs didn’t over-help, and he had picked up dribble.
It’s only five games into their connection, but Dylan Harper and Wembanyama complement each other so well. The former wrapped around a screen and tossed a gorgeous underhand feed to the latter, who got behind Kel’el Ware easily because he was trying to guard two.
This open 3-pointer felt too similar to a boxer delivering the knockout blow when their opponent is gassed. Specifically, it was oddly reminiscent of Julio Cesar Chavez putting down Meldrick Taylor at the end of round 12 of their first fight. Interestingly, it was the only triple he made in five attempts, and the second most he’s taken this season in a game.
Feast your eyes on this exquisite ball movement, in which four of the five Spurs get a touch. This team understands very well that the greatest strength in basketball comes from the pass, not the bounce. This is also a great example of how dangerous Wembanyama is. Look at the pressure he sees so far away from the rim.
If you missed it, be sure to check out the full game highlights. Also, it’s not a bad idea to recheck these out again, if you are a sicko for hoops like everybody at Pounding the Rock.
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