Spurs Defeat Lakers in Quarterfinal Without Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs made a surprise splash in the Copa NBA quarterfinal, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 132-119 despite the absence of star Victor Wembanyama due to a calf injury. The Lakers, with Luka Doncic and LeBron James, aimed to secure their second Copa NBA title after winning the inaugural edition in 2023. However, the Spurs, led by Stephon Castle’s 35 points and 10 rebounds, dominated the game from start to finish.

Luka Doncic finished with 35 points but LeBron James and Austin Reaves were left at 19 and 15 respectively.

Source: 247sports.news

Los Angeles’ hopes of a comeback were short-lived as the Spurs’ efficient outside shooting and cohesive teamwork ultimately led to their elimination.

LeBron’s Dunk Showcases Lakers’ Glimpse of Hope

LeBron James, nearing 41 years old, brought the Lakers back into the game with a powerful dunk over Luke Kornet, a 2.16-meter center. The dunk, witnessed by the lively Los Angeles crowd, briefly cut the Spurs’ lead to below 10 points before halftime. However, the Spurs soon re-established control, with key contributions from De’Aaron Fox and Harrison Barnes, who combined for 15 triples.

Thunder’s Historic Start Continues with Rout of Suns

The Oklahoma City Thunder, fresh off their 138-89 demolition of the Phoenix Suns, will face the starless San Antonio Spurs in the Copa NBA semifinals. The Thunder also entered the season with the best regular-phase record since the Golden State Warriors’ 73-9 campaign in 2015-2016. With a 24-1 record, including a perfect start at home, the Thunder are poised to make a deep run in the Copa NBA.

• The Thunder joins the 2015-2016 Golden State Warriors as the only teams to win 24 of their first 25 games in the regular phase.