Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images
By Rafael Bandayrel
The San Antonio Spurs cruised to a 111-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 1 of their first-round NBA Playoff series on Monday (PH time) in San Antonio.
Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images
Portland kept things competitive through the first three quarters, staying within striking distance before the Spurs pulled away in the fourth behind a decisive run that ballooned the lead to as many as 21.
The Blazers managed to trim the deficit to 11, but could not get any closer as San Antonio closed the door late. De'Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell delivered key baskets down the stretch to put the game out of reach.
Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images
Victor Wembanyama made history in his playoff debut, erupting for 21 first-half points—the most by a player in his postseason debut since the 1997-98 season. The French phenom finished with 35 points and five rebounds.
Fox and Stephon Castle added 17 points apiece to provide curcial support.
With the win, the Spurs take a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 will resume on Wednesday in San Antonio.