Spurs' Dylan Harper shines in first career start in win over Pacers

Harper, Johnson, and Wembanyama combine for 68 points in wire-to-wire victory

Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:20pm

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In the absence of injured starters Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell, 20-year-old rookie Dylan Harper made his first career start and led the San Antonio Spurs to a 134-119 win over the Indiana Pacers. Harper scored 24 points on 69% shooting, while Keldon Johnson added 24 points and Victor Wembanyama recorded a 20-point, 8-rebound, 6-assist, 5-block performance.

Why it matters

The Spurs' young core of Harper, Johnson, and Wembanyama showcased their talent and potential, leading the team to victory despite key injuries. Harper's breakout performance in his first start demonstrates the depth and versatility of the Spurs' roster, which could bode well for their playoff push with only 11 games remaining in the regular season.

The details

The Spurs jumped out to a 42-29 lead in the first quarter and never looked back, leading by as many as 15 points. Harper, Johnson, and Wembanyama combined for 68 of the team's 134 points, with Harper and Johnson each scoring 24 and Wembanyama adding 20 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 blocks. The Spurs shot an efficient 69% from the field as a team, including 67% from three-point range.

  • The Spurs wrapped up their mini homestand against the Indiana Pacers on March 22, 2026.

The players

Dylan Harper

A 20-year-old rookie guard who made his first career start in place of the injured Stephon Castle, scoring 24 points on 69% shooting with 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

Keldon Johnson

The Spurs' starting forward who scored 24 points on 83% shooting, including 67% from three-point range, in just 25 minutes of play.

Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs' star rookie center who recorded a 20-point, 8-rebound, 6-assist, 5-block performance, showcasing his versatile skillset and defensive dominance.

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What’s next

With only 11 games remaining in the regular season, the Spurs will look to lock up the second seed in the Western Conference playoffs, or potentially overtake the first-place Oklahoma City Thunder.

The takeaway

The Spurs' young core of Harper, Johnson, and Wembanyama have proven their ability to step up and lead the team to victory, even in the absence of key starters. This performance showcases the depth and versatility of the Spurs' roster, which could be a major asset as they make a push for the playoffs.