Spurs Grind Out Gritty Win Over Pistons

Rookie Victor Wembanyama battles through physical defense to lead San Antonio to victory

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The San Antonio Spurs defeated the Detroit Pistons 114-103 in a physical, playoff-like matchup. Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama struggled offensively but made an impact with 17 rebounds and 6 blocks, helping the Spurs overcome the Pistons' bruising style of play. The win extends San Antonio's winning streak to 9 games as they continue to establish themselves as a contender in the Western Conference.

Why it matters

This game showcased the Spurs' ability to win a tough, grind-it-out contest against one of the NBA's most physical teams. As Wembanyama continues to develop, learning to excel in these types of physical battles will be crucial for his and the team's playoff success.

The details

Despite scoring just 21 points on 37.5% shooting, Wembanyama made his presence felt with 17 rebounds and 6 blocks. The Pistons, led by Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, tried to physically overwhelm the rookie, knocking him to the floor multiple times. But Wembanyama kept getting back up and making winning plays. De'Aaron Fox (24 points, 10 assists) and Devin Vassell (28 points) also had big games for the Spurs, who shot 45% from three-point range and forced 16 Pistons turnovers.

  • The Spurs jumped out to an 11-2 lead early in the first quarter.
  • Wembanyama was knocked to the floor by a forearm from Cade Cunningham in the first quarter.
  • Wembanyama battled for a rebound with Jalen Duren and hit the floor again in the second quarter.
  • Wembanyama scored 11 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter to help the Spurs pull away.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

The 7'4" rookie sensation for the San Antonio Spurs, who is emerging as one of the NBA's top young stars.

Cade Cunningham

The All-Star guard for the Detroit Pistons, who had a tough shooting night (5-of-26) but tried to physically challenge Wembanyama.

Jalen Duren

The Pistons' rookie center, who battled with Wembanyama for rebounds and tried to impose Detroit's physical style of play.

De'Aaron Fox

The Spurs' All-Star point guard, who had 24 points and 10 assists to lead San Antonio's offense.

Devin Vassell

The Spurs' sharpshooting wing, who scored a team-high 28 points and hit 7 three-pointers.

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What they’re saying

“Vic is going to impact the game no matter what. It's special to see and play with.”

— Stephon Castle (Instagram)

“It was a good test.”

— Victor Wembanyama (Instagram)

“Just tried to keep a body on him at all times. Just tried to not let him move around the court freely.”

— Stephon Castle (Instagram)

“Anytime we can play a competitive game, you want to win. But a competitive game against a team of this caliber, there's learning lessons and moments and things to reference to improve upon and positive feedback all throughout the game.”

— Keldon Johnson (Instagram)

“We're not going to back down from any moment like that.”

— Stephon Castle (Instagram)

What’s next

The Spurs will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.

The takeaway

This gritty win over the physical Pistons shows the Spurs have the toughness and resilience to compete with the NBA's top teams. As Wembanyama continues to develop, his ability to excel in these types of physical battles will be crucial for the Spurs' playoff aspirations.