Fox and Wembanyama Propel Spurs Past Pelicans
De’Aaron Fox made a stellar return to the NBA, scoring 24 points in his season debut and leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 126–119 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday. His performance also coincided with the Los Angeles Lakers seeing their five-game winning streak come to an end with a sloppy loss in Atlanta.
Fox Returns Strong
The All-Star guard, who had missed the Spurs’ first eight games due to a hamstring injury, led eight teammates scoring in double figures. He missed his only two shots in the first quarter but quickly found rhythm, going six-for-six in the second and tallying 15 points by halftime, with San Antonio ahead 66–58.
Wembanyama’s Dominant Presence
French rookie Victor Wembanyama added 18 points and 18 rebounds, helping the Spurs fend off a late surge from the Pelicans, who were without Zion Williamson. Despite Trey Murphy scoring 41 points for New Orleans, the Spurs controlled the game throughout.
Final Minutes and Reaction
The Pelicans reduced a 14-point deficit to three in the final minute, but Fox sealed the victory with a driving layup and two key free throws on San Antonio’s next possession.
“Oh, I was extremely excited,” Fox said. “Obviously I’m just like anybody, I have nerves, but coming out here, man, my teammates trust me, I trust them... I’m just trying to help them get wins.”
Author’s Summary
De’Aaron Fox’s 24-point return, bolstered by Wembanyama’s double-double, powered the Spurs to victory over the Pelicans despite Trey Murphy’s explosive 41-point effort.