Spurs End Historic Minnesota Slump With Dominant Playoffs Victory
Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama led the charge as the Spurs overcame a seven-game losing streak in the state, while the Timberwolves struggled to find an offensive rhythm despite Anthony Edwards' return.
The San Antonio Spurs have secured a comprehensive 133-95 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinal series on 9 May 2026. This decisive result not only extends San Antonio's momentum but also breaks a seven-game losing streak for the franchise in Minnesota dating back to October 2022. The win represents the Spurs' most significant postseason achievement since 1983, marking a stark reversal of fortunes for the home team.
Victor Wembanyama was instrumental in the Spurs' success, establishing his dominance in the paint and contributing significantly to the team's offensive efficiency. Stephon Castle led the Spurs' scoring effort with 21 points, providing a crucial offensive outlet that helped San Antonio control the tempo of the contest. The combination of interior strength and perimeter scoring allowed the Spurs to build a substantial lead, with the teams tied only at 51-51 at halftime before San Antonio pulled away.
In contrast, the Timberwolves struggled to find an offensive rhythm throughout the game. Although Anthony Edwards returned from injury and was expected to start according to team public relations, the squad failed to generate consistent scoring opportunities against the Spurs' defence. The loss deepens the frustration for Minnesota, a team that finished the regular season with a 31-21 record against Western Conference opponents and has relied heavily on Edwards' production throughout the playoffs.
The series is now tied, setting up a crucial Game 4 in Minnesota where the Timberwolves will look to bounce back from this historic defeat. While the Spurs have not won a game in the state since 24 October 2022, this victory demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure and adapt their strategy effectively. The win also highlights the importance of regular-season form, as San Antonio entered the matchup averaging 119.8 points per game.
On the roster front, Donte DiVencenzo remains unavailable due to an Achilles injury, though he was observed getting reps as a sideline photographer during the shootaround. Meanwhile, the Spurs' depth has been evident, with De'Aaron Fox providing steady production and Julian Champagnie emerging as a perimeter threat over the last ten contests. These factors have collectively bolstered San Antonio's ability to withstand the pressure of a playoff series.
As the series moves forward, the focus shifts to how the Timberwolves can adjust their offensive approach to counter the Spurs' interior dominance. The Spurs' ability to end their long drought in Minnesota suggests a shift in the power dynamics of the Western Conference semifinal, with San Antonio poised to take control of the series heading into the next matchup.
