Victor Wembanyama’s Debut Not Enough as Boston Celtics Dominate San Antonio Spurs. In Victor Wembanyama’s highly anticipated debut on the renowned parquet court, the San Antonio Spurs fell short against the Boston Celtics, who secured a convincing 117-98 victory. Jayson Tatum led the charge for the Celtics with 24 points, while Jaylen Brown, returning after a one-game absence, added 21 points to contribute to the team’s success.

Wembanyama, the rising star of the Spurs, showcased his skills in the first quarter, scoring 10 points as San Antonio kept the game close. The 7-foot-3 French rookie finished the game with an impressive 27 points and 5 rebounds in 27 minutes of play. However, despite Wembanyama’s strong performance, it marked the Spurs’ third consecutive defeat as they continue to strugglе, currently holding the lowest record in the Western Conference.

Jrue Holiday played a crucial role for the Celtics, contributing 22 points and nine rebounds, helping Boston secure their third consecutive win and maintain a perfect 20-0 record at home. Although the Spurs briefly trailed by only three points in the final minute of the first quarter, the Celtics, led by Wembanyama, remained in control. Despite San Antonio narrowing the gap early in the second quarter (32-29), Boston quickly regrouped, scoring eight straight points and 18 of the next 22.

The Celtics entered halftime with a commanding 70-45 lead after another 8-0 run. This season, the Celtics have now defeated the Spurs 33 times out of 34, including their previous matchup on New Year’s Eve.

Jaylen Brown, returning from a hyperextended right knee, missed the Celtics’ victory over the Raptors on Monday but made a strong comeback. Derrick White (left ankle sprain) and Kristaps Porzingis (right knee irritation) were unavailable for the Celtics.