In a thrilling cross-Pacific basketball showcase, the San Antonio Spurs secured a decisive 119-88 preseason victory against the Chinese Basketball Association's Guangzhou Loong Lions on Tuesday. The game highlighted rising star Victor Wembanyama's growing versatility as he neared a triple-double in just 16 minutes of play.
The 7-foot-4 French phenom demonstrated remarkable efficiency, converting all three field goal attempts while contributing 9 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 blocks. His defensive presence helped the Spurs establish a dominant 74-45 halftime lead that ultimately decided the contest.
San Antonio's depth proved overwhelming, with Keldon Johnson, Julian Champagnie, and Luke Kornet each scoring 16 points. Guangzhou's Frank Kaminsky (22 points) and Victor Oladipo (20 points) led a third-quarter resurgence, outscoring the Spurs 27-18, but couldn't overcome the early deficit.
The matchup marks Guangzhou's first stop on a U.S. exhibition tour that continues Thursday against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Spurs will face the Miami Heat on Wednesday as both teams prepare for their respective league seasons.
