Spurs reclaim series lead as Edwards concedes no answer for Wembanyama
Minnesota Timberwolves face elimination in Game 6 after Victor Wembanyama’s dominant performance secures a 3-2 advantage for San Antonio.
The San Antonio Spurs have seized control of their Western Conference playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, taking a 3-2 lead following a decisive 126-97 victory in Game 5. The result places the Timberwolves on the brink of elimination as they prepare for Game 6 at home in Minneapolis on Friday.
San Antonio star Victor Wembanyama delivered a comprehensive performance, recording 27 points, 17 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks. His output effectively neutralised the Timberwolves’ defensive schemes, shifting the momentum of the best-of-seven series back to the Spurs after Minnesota had previously held a 3-2 advantage.
Minnesota guard Anthony Edwards, who finished with 20 points after being limited to eight in the first half, acknowledged the difficulty of containing the Spurs’ centre. Edwards conceded that the team had no viable solution for Wembanyama’s impact, particularly given his hot start to the game.
"I mean, tonight, some of the stuff Wemby was doing, you don't really have an answer for it," Edwards said. "Just kinda hoped he misses, he came out hot and made shots... Eventually, they created another lead."
The Timberwolves attempted to rally during the third quarter with a 14-2 run, but San Antonio regained a double-digit lead following a block by Keldon Johnson on Rudy Gobert’s attempted dunk. Johnson followed up with a short jumper after physical contact with Edwards, further extending the Spurs' advantage.
Julius Randle and Jaden McDaniels each contributed 17 points for Minnesota, but the team struggled to counter the Spurs' defensive pressure. The series now features a two-day break before Game 6, providing Minnesota with time to prepare for a must-win scenario in Minneapolis.
