The San Antonio Spurs held on in the fourth quarter to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 115-108 in Game 3 on Friday and take a 2-1 series lead.
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The first quarter was a roller coaster that saw the Timberwolves jump out to a quick 20-8 lead. While Anthony Edwards was hot in the first frame, the Spurs recovered well and finished the period with a one-point advantage.
In contrast, the second quarter was a choppy and sporadic affair as neither team could really go on a run. The physicality was elevated as tough defense from both teams took hold.
Minnesota maintained a rebounding advantage while the Spurs had a more dynamic offense. By halftime, it was all tied up at 51.
In the third, San Antonio’s offense caught fire from everywhere on the floor. Victor Wembanyama continued to lead the way as the Spurs grabbed a lead, but the Timberwolves kept it competitive.
The Spurs ultimately put up 35 points in the third quarter and led by seven.
Their offense cooled off a bit in the fourth, but their defense made sure the same was true for Minnesota. After roughly nine minutes, Wembanyama put together a 5-0 personal scoring run to make it a two-possession game.
Down the stretch, the Spurs played strong defense and made clutch free throws to keep the advantage.
Wembanyama put the team on his back with 39 points, 15 rebounds and five blocks.
For Minnesota, Edwards led the way with 32 points, 14 rebounds and six assists.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
