Spurs Stifle Rockets with Wembanyama's Rim Protection

San Antonio's defensive adjustments prove too much for Houston's paint-focused offense.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The San Antonio Spurs have turned their season around after a slow start, thanks in large part to a defensive adjustment they made the last time they faced the Houston Rockets. By sending their aggressive point guard Stephon Castle to defend Rockets big man Alperen Sengun, and having Victor Wembanyama switch onto wing Amen Thompson, the Spurs were able to shut down Houston's paint-centric offense, holding them to just 14 points in the fourth quarter of their previous matchup. The Rockets will need to find a way to counter this strategy if they hope to have success against the surging Spurs.

Why it matters

This game represents an important test for both teams as they jockey for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. The Spurs have emerged as one of the hottest teams in the NBA over the past month and a half, while the Rockets have struggled to find consistency. How the Rockets adjust to the Spurs' defensive scheme could determine the outcome of this crucial matchup.

The details

In the previous meeting, the Spurs sent their aggressive point guard Stephon Castle to defend Rockets big man Alperen Sengun, neutralizing his ability to bully the Spurs' frontcourt. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama switched onto wing Amen Thompson, daring him to shoot from the outside rather than attack the rim. This strategy turned the paint into a no-fly zone for the Rockets, who scored just 14 points in the fourth quarter as they blew a 16-point lead. The Rockets will need to find a way to counter this defensive scheme if they hope to have more success against the Spurs this time around.

  • The Spurs and Rockets last played on January 1, 2026.
  • The Spurs have gone 15-2 since that game.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

The highly touted rookie center for the San Antonio Spurs, known for his elite rim protection and defensive versatility.

Stephon Castle

The Spurs' aggressive point guard who was tasked with defending Rockets big man Alperen Sengun in the previous matchup.

Amen Thompson

The Rockets' high-flying wing who struggled to score against Wembanyama's defense in the previous game.

Alperen Sengun

The Rockets' physical big man who was neutralized by the Spurs' defensive adjustments in the previous matchup.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Spurs will look to continue their strong defensive play against the Rockets, while the Rockets will need to find a way to counter the Spurs' adjustments in order to have more success on the offensive end.

The takeaway

This game showcases the strategic chess match between coaches, as the Spurs' defensive scheme was able to stifle the Rockets' paint-focused offense in their previous meeting. The Rockets will need to make their own adjustments if they hope to avoid a similar outcome and keep pace in the Western Conference playoff race.