Spurs Shock the NBA! Fully Healthy Lineup Dominates, Reaches NBA Cup Finals

Week in Review: Fully healthy Spurs shock the league, make NBA Cup Finals

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Spurs basketball game, with the players' forms abstracted into angular, colorful shapes that capture the energy and movement of the game.The Spurs' unexpected NBA Cup Finals run is a testament to the team's depth, resilience, and the transformative impact of rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama.New Orleans Today

The San Antonio Spurs, led by a fully healthy roster including star rookie Victor Wembanyama, have defied expectations by reaching the NBA Cup Finals. After a strong 3-0 week that included wins over the Pelicans, Lakers, and Thunder, the Spurs have proven they can compete with the league's elite teams when at full strength.

Why it matters

The Spurs' unexpected run to the NBA Cup Finals showcases the team's depth and versatility, with multiple players stepping up in different games. Their ability to win close games and overcome deficits demonstrates their resilience and coaching adjustments. This success could validate the Spurs' long-term trajectory and establish them as a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.

The details

The Spurs started the week with a narrow 135-132 win over the Pelicans, where they built a 25-point lead in the second quarter before holding on late. They then upset the Lakers 132-119 in the NBA Cup Quarterfinals, outpacing the slower Lakers with hot shooting. In the NBA Cup Semifinals, the Spurs knocked off the defending champion Thunder 111-109, with Victor Wembanyama making a triumphant return from injury to provide a key boost off the bench.

  • On April 12, 2026, the Spurs defeated the Pelicans 135-132.
  • On April 14, 2026, the Spurs defeated the Lakers 132-119 in the NBA Cup Quarterfinals.
  • On April 16, 2026, the Spurs defeated the Thunder 111-109 in the NBA Cup Semifinals.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs' star rookie who made a triumphant return from injury to provide a key boost off the bench in the NBA Cup Semifinals.

De'Aaron Fox

The Spurs' starting point guard who sparked a critical 13-0 run to close the first half against the Thunder.

Stephon Castle

The Spurs' starting shooting guard who dropped 30 efficient points while guarding Luka Dončić in the win over the Lakers.

Dylan Harper

The Spurs' starting small forward who delivered a clutch bucket in the win over the Pelicans.

Keldon Johnson

The Spurs' veteran forward whose leadership and competitive drive could provide an extra edge for the team's title run.

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What’s next

The Spurs will face the Knicks in the NBA Cup Finals in Las Vegas. Wembanyama's presence in the paint should aid the Spurs' defensive responses to the Knicks' perimeter shooting, especially their league-leading corner 3-point attempts.

The takeaway

The Spurs' unexpected run to the NBA Cup Finals showcases the team's depth, versatility, and resilience. Their ability to win close games and overcome deficits, even without their star rookie for a stretch, demonstrates their coaching adjustments and the team's potential to be a force in the Western Conference.