The San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks matchup was the first game of the 2024 NBA Christmas Day slate. Victor Wembanyama made his debut on the special date against one of the association's most iconic franchises.
The Knicks entered this matchup having won four of their last duels, boasting a 19-10 record that places them third in the Eastern Conference behind the Cleveland Cavaliers (26-4) and Boston Celtics (22-7), respectively. The Spurs sit ninth in the Western Conference standings, yet keeping tabs on the LA Clippers (17-13), LA Lakers (16-13) and Golden State Warriors (15-13) to try to get out of play-in spots.
Mikal Bridges led the way for the home team with 41 points while Victor Wembanyama clapped back with 42 units for the Texans.
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San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks player stats and box score
San Antonio Spurs players and stats
New York Knicks players and stats
San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks game recap
The San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks started with both teams exchanging buckets but trying to cancel each other out on defense. The Knicks took the lead in the final minute when both teams scored 22 points. They entered the second quarter up 28-27.
Led by Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs tried to take the lead in the second quarter. They entered halftime up 58-51 after taking the second quarter 31-23. Wembanyama finished with 24 points, while Mikal Bridges responded with 16 points.
The Knicks responded with a strong third quarter, leading the period 23-16 with a little over four minutes left on the clock, trying to take the lead over the Western Conference team. They ended up winning this period 37-25, entering the final quarter with a five-point lead.
In addition to Bridges' 26 units, Karl Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson finished this period with 21 and 20 points, respectively, while Victor Wembanyama kept his team afloat with 31 points at that point.
Wembanyama added 11 points in the fourth quarter, but it wasn't enough to get past the Knicks, who managed their third-quarter advantage in the final period, securing the win despite losing that quarter 31-29.
Mikal Bridges finished the game with 41 points, followed by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson. Victor Wembanyama put on another show with 42 units and 18 rebounds for the Spurs, making a statement in his first Christmas Day game.
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