Wembanyama’s 30-point night led 4 things that jumped out as Spurs beat Kings
Wembanyama scores inside and out
Wembanyama powered the win with dunks, putbacks and finishes off lobs, scoring 30 points and collecting 14 rebounds. His work near the basket continued to trouble the Kings.
He also matched his season high with four made three-pointers. Wembanyama looked composed on open attempts, adding a perimeter threat to his ability to finish at the rim.
Castle finds ways to contribute
With three guards in the starting lineup, Stephon Castle has had to spend more time away from the ball. Coach Mitch Johnson has also used him as a screener, where his size and strength can create chances to finish or pass.
On one play, Castle screened for Wembanyama, then cut toward the rim as defenders shifted. He caught a lob and, while airborne, spun to find Devin Vassell open in the corner for a three-pointer. Castle later finished another lob from Wembanyama at the rim.
Vassell rediscovers his range
Vassell entered the game shooting 25% from three-point range, but made five of six attempts against Sacramento. One came from near the NBA Cup logo on a broken play, beating the buzzer.
Johnson said Vassell had missed good shots in earlier games and that the team wanted him taking those attempts more often. He also credited improved efforts to find Vassell and Julian Champagnie in rhythm.
Ball movement drives the offense
The Spurs recorded 28 assists on 38 made baskets, repeatedly moving the ball to find open shooters. Their 50% shooting from beyond the arc marked their best three-point performance of the season.
Castle led San Antonio with seven assists, while Keldon Johnson added six off the bench. The Kings also gave up 42 free throws as the Spurs completed the 124-109 win.
Key points
- San Antonio won its seventh straight game, beating Sacramento 124-109 in NBA Cup group play.
- Victor Wembanyama had 30 points, 14 rebounds and four made three-pointers.
- Stephon Castle scored 19 points and led the Spurs with seven assists.
- Devin Vassell made five of six three-point attempts after entering the game at 25%.