Wembanyma Drops 52, Spurs Edge Mavericks

Victor Wembanyama poured in 52 points and 24 rebounds, a career-high, to beat the Mavericks 112-111. He set a career best with 24 rebounds and nailed all 15 first-half free throws. The French rookie also blocked eight shots, three of them in a 13-second burst. That defensive surge helped the Spurs build a 19-point third-quarter lead. Dallas clawed back, tying at 15111 after Naji Marshall's three-pointer with 1:41 left. Wembanyma then sank the winning free throw with 24.2 seconds remaining. Kyrie Irving missed a contested jumper in the final 2.5 seconds, sealing the loss. Spurs guard Dylan Harper, who added 21 points, hailed Vic as "basically Wilt". He became the first player in three decades to post at least 25 points, 10 rebounds in a half. He also recorded five blocked shots in that half, a feat not seen in 30 seasons. He admits he's sick but feels his legs are back, hoping for more nights like this. Harper's "basically Wilt" line may set the tone for a franchise-changing season.