Timberwolves draw first blood despite Wembanyama record

TL;DR

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the San Antonio Spurs 104-102 in Game 1 of the NBA Conference semi-finals, despite Victor Wembanyama's record 12 blocks. Wembanyama also recorded 11 points and 15 rebounds, achieving a rare triple-double in the playoffs.

Key points

Timberwolves lead 1-0 in NBA Conference semi-finals
Victor Wembanyama recorded 12 blocks, a playoff record
Wembanyama achieved a triple-double with 11 points and 15 rebounds

Minnesota TimberwolvesSan Antonio SpursVictor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama with his hands on his knees during game one of the San Antonio Spurs' MBA play-off series with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2026

Victor Wembanyama recently became the NBA's first unanimous winner of the defensive player of the year award [Getty Images]

A record-breaking defensive performance from Victor Wembanyama was not enough to prevent the Minnesota Timberwolves taking a 1-0 lead against the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA's Conference semi-finals.

Wembanyama made 12 blocks - a record for the NBA play-offs - but Minnesota, sixth seed in the Western Conference, upset second seed San Antonio by claiming a 104-102 win on the road on Monday.

The defensive player of the year added 11 points and 15 rebounds, becoming the third player to get a triple-double in the play-offs including blocks since the league began tracking blocks in 1973-74.

Anthony Edwards returned from a knee injury for the Timberwolves and scored 18 points from the bench as they held on to win the opening game of the best-of-seven series.

San Antonio remain at home for game two on Wednesday.

"We have to be better," said Wembanyama. "We need to figure it out in the next 48 hours, and I've got no doubt that we will. I would trust us."

The New York Knicks made a commanding start to their series with the Philadelphia 76ers, winning 137-98 at home.

The Knicks, who are the third seed in the Eastern Conference, became the first NBA team to win three straight play-off games by at least 25 points.

Q&A

What record did Victor Wembanyama set in the NBA playoffs?

Victor Wembanyama set a record for the most blocks in a single NBA playoff game with 12 blocks.

How did the Timberwolves perform against the Spurs in Game 1?

The Timberwolves won Game 1 against the Spurs with a score of 104-102, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

What notable achievement did Wembanyama accomplish in Game 1?

Wembanyama became the third player in NBA history to record a triple-double in the playoffs that includes blocks, finishing with 11 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 blocks.