BOSTON — Jayson Tatum delivered an impressive performance with 32 points and 14 rebounds, leading the Boston Celtics to a 116-103 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. This win marked the Celtics’ third consecutive win and their seventh in the last eight games.
Joining Tatum in the scoring effort was Kristaps Porzingis, who contributed 29 points. Derrick White also played a pivotal role, finishing with 19 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds in what was the final game for both squads before the upcoming All-Star break.
The Spurs made a significant push in the game, erasing a 19-point deficit by narrowing the score to 93-85 at the start of the fourth quarter. However, Boston managed to regain control and outscored San Antonio 23-18 for the remainder of the matchup.
De’Aaron Fox was notable for San Antonio, scoring 23 points in his fifth game since moving to the Spurs from Sacramento. Victor Wembanyama contributed 17 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks, showcasing his multifaceted talent. San Antonio has recorded three victories in their last eight outings.
Observations from the game showed that while San Antonio holds a 2-3 record in the games Fox has played, more practice sessions could enhance their chemistry, particularly after a rigorous six-game road stretch.
On the Boston side, they have significantly turned around their season, sitting at 8-6 at the start of the new year and now clearly in a good rhythm as they approach the All-Star break.
A critical moment unfolded in the fourth quarter when Boston was ahead 105-91; Porzingis faced a double team from Wembanyama and Fox. He cleverly executed a no-look, over-the-head pass to Al Horford, who then found Sam Hauser for a long-range jumper, extending Boston’s lead further.
In terms of home game performance, the Celtics improved their record to 17-10, bouncing back after losing three of their previous four contests at TD Garden.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to resume play on February 20. The Spurs will host the Phoenix Suns, while the Celtics will travel to Philadelphia to face the 76ers.
