Following a blowout in Philadelphia against the 76ers on Tuesday, the San Antonio Spurs return to action Thursday, facing the Detroit Pistons in what is expected to be a heavily contested rematch.
In their first meeting of the season, 10 days ago, the Spurs took care of business with an 11-point road victory, led by Devin Vassell’s 28-point performance.
San Antonio will now host Thursday’s game, looking to improve on a strong 21-6 record at Frost Bank Center.
That said, both teams have a near-identical record this season. Detroit is slightly better at 45-15, while San Antonio has played in one more game to this point, holding a 44-17 record.
For the Spurs to earn another victory, a strong presence inside is key. In the last matchup between the two sides, Detroit dominated San Antonio in this category, outscoring them 62-44 in the paint.
Victor Wembanyama is vital to slowing down Detroit’s offense, as the frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 2.9 blocks this season after leading the league in each of his last two seasons.
In fact, Wembanyama is on a tremendous shot-blocking pace, showcasing his potential to end up as one of the best rim protectors in league history.
In 24 minutes against the 76ers on Tuesday, Wembanyama recorded six blocks, upping his career total to 568.
That moved him to 250th all-time, despite having played just two seasons’ worth of games (164).
It also moves him just four blocks behind three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who’s played in 627 more career games.
Victor Wembanyama is now top 250 all-time in blocks: pic.twitter.com/4xQrTUg4Rm
— +/- (@roadto81pct) March 4, 2026
Even if Wembanyama doesn’t pass Jokic Thursday night, it’s only a matter of time.
