Pelicans Stun Top-Seeded Spurs in Comeback Victory

SAN ANTONIO (Azat TV) – The New Orleans Pelicans delivered a stunning upset victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night, rallying from a significant deficit to secure a 104-95 road win and prevent a season sweep against the Western Conference’s second-seeded team. Despite San Antonio’s 31-14 record and early control of the game, New Orleans showcased superior resolve and execution in the decisive moments, particularly in the second half, handing the Spurs one of their most unexpected losses of the season.

Pelicans Mount Stunner Comeback

The game saw the Pelicans overcome a substantial challenge, including a 20-point deficit at one stage. The Spurs initially held a 28-25 lead after a hard-fought first quarter, with rookie guards Dylan Harper and Devin Vassell contributing back-to-back transition baskets. However, San Antonio’s offense faltered significantly in the second period, struggling with shooting efficiency and allowing New Orleans to capitalize. Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado hit two crucial triples, and Zion Williamson executed a monstrous dunk, helping New Orleans establish a 56-47 lead by halftime.

The Pelicans extended their dominance in the third quarter, unleashing a 16-6 run that pushed their lead to a commanding 19 points. This surge prompted San Antonio coach Mitch Johnson to make a strategic move, substituting his entire starting lineup following a timeout. The lineup change ignited a formidable response from the Spurs, who embarked on a 21-4 run that spanned the late third and early fourth quarters, including 16 consecutive points. Stephon Castle’s free throw put San Antonio ahead 93-89 with just 4:39 remaining, appearing to complete a remarkable turnaround.

However, the Pelicans demonstrated resilience, refusing to relinquish control. Despite San Antonio’s late lead, the Spurs struggled from the free-throw line, converting only 19 of 32 attempts for the game, including four critical misses in the closing moments. New Orleans intensified its defensive pressure and physicality, securing numerous offensive rebounds and 50/50 balls, ultimately overpowering San Antonio to close out the game on a decisive run.

Key Performances and Team Dynamics

For the New Orleans Pelicans, Zion Williamson and Saddiq Bey were instrumental, each delivering identical stat lines of 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists. Trey Murphy III added 17 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds, while Yves Missi contributed a double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds, along with 2 blocks. The Pelicans’ ability to create second-chance opportunities and their robust defense were central to their victory, especially in containing the Spurs’ young talent.

San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama finished with 16 points, 16 rebounds, and 4 blocks, but reportedly struggled with the physical play of his Pelicans counterparts. Keldon Johnson provided 15 points off the bench, and Devin Vassell, returning from a strained left adductor and playing 25 minutes, added 13 points. Despite having their entire rotation available for the first time since December 29, the Spurs’ offensive struggles, particularly their poor free-throw shooting and inability to convert crucial shots, proved costly against a determined Pelicans squad.

Context: A Season Series Shift

This victory was particularly significant for the New Orleans Pelicans as it prevented a season sweep by the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs, holding the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with a 31-14 record, had won the three previous encounters between the two teams. The Pelicans entered the game aiming to build on momentum from a recent comeback victory against the Grizzlies, showcasing a new starting lineup designed to boost their perimeter play and offensive versatility. New Orleans’ injury report noted Dejounte Murray’s continued absence due to a ruptured Achilles tendon, but Jose Alvarado returned from an oblique strain, providing valuable backcourt depth.

Looking Ahead for Both Squads

Following this unexpected defeat, the San Antonio Spurs will travel east on I-10 to face the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. This upcoming game presents an immediate opportunity for the Spurs to regroup and demonstrate their championship aspirations against a strong Western Conference rival. For the New Orleans Pelicans, the win signifies a crucial morale boost and demonstrates their capability to compete with top-tier teams, especially when overcoming significant deficits and executing under pressure. Their ability to maintain this level of performance will be key as they continue their push in the competitive Western Conference standings.

The Pelicans’ ability to turn the tide against a high-ranking Spurs team, especially after facing a substantial deficit and a challenging season series, underscores the unpredictable nature of the NBA and highlights the importance of sustained defensive intensity and clutch free-throw shooting in close contests.