Undermanned Warriors Struggle to Contain Wembanyama's Dominance

Spurs' star rookie scores 41 points and grabs 18 rebounds in 127-113 win over short-handed Golden State

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:37am by Ben Kaplan

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With only nine active players available, the Golden State Warriors were no match for the towering presence of San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama. Wembanyama dominated the game, scoring 41 points and grabbing 18 rebounds in just 29 minutes of play, as the Spurs cruised to a 127-113 victory at Chase Center.

Why it matters

The Warriors' depleted roster due to injuries and absences highlighted their struggles to contain the 7-foot-4 Wembanyama, who is making a strong case for NBA MVP consideration as the Spurs continue to climb the Western Conference standings. Despite the lopsided loss, the Warriors' effort and competitiveness were never in doubt as they continue to fight for a playoff spot.

The details

Wembanyama got off to a blistering start, scoring 10 points and grabbing 5 rebounds in the first 4 minutes of the game to power the Spurs to a 17-3 lead. The Warriors were unable to slow down the dominant rookie, who finished the game with 41 points, 18 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski led the Warriors with 14 points each, while Nate Williams added 18 points off the bench. Foul trouble plagued the Warriors, with Green, Omer Yurtseven, and Williams all dealing with multiple fouls throughout the game.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Chase Center in San Francisco.
  • The Spurs jumped out to a 17-3 lead in the first 3:56 of the game.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

A 7-foot-4 rookie sensation for the San Antonio Spurs who is making a strong case for NBA MVP consideration this season.

Draymond Green

A veteran forward for the Golden State Warriors who played with energy and heart despite the team's undermanned roster.

Nate Williams

A 6-foot-5 Warriors reserve who played a team-high 47 minutes and scored 18 points off the bench.

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What they’re saying

“It's not what we do. We just compete, that's the job. Steph's in the final stages of his career and has a chance to compete in the playoffs, and he's going to want to, and the group is going to want to. That stuff has a way of shaking out.”

— Steve Kerr, Warriors Head Coach

What’s next

The Warriors will look to bounce back on Thursday when they host the Cleveland Cavaliers. Head coach Steve Kerr expects to have De'Anthony Melton, Kristaps Porzingis, Gui Santos, and Gary Payton II available for that game.

The takeaway

Despite being severely undermanned, the Warriors refused to tank or give up on the season, continuing to compete hard against one of the NBA's rising young stars in Victor Wembanyama. This effort and determination will serve them well as they fight to secure a playoff spot in the crowded Western Conference.