Wembanyama’s 12 Blocks Set NBA Postseason Record, But Spurs Fall 104-102 to Timberwolves in Game 1

Victor Wembanyama posted a historic defensive performance on Monday, May 5, setting an NBA postseason single-game record with 12 blocks. However, it wasn’t enough to secure a win as the San Antonio Spurs lost 104-102 to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinals series at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.

Wembanyama’s 12 blocks broke the previous playoff high of 10, a mark achieved by Andrew Bynum (2012), Hakeem Olajuwon and Mark Eaton. His record-setting 11th block — the one that moved him past the prior benchmark — came early in the fourth quarter when he denied a shot from Anthony Edwards.

While dominant on defense, Wembanyama had a difficult shooting night. He finished with 11 points and 15 rebounds, but went 0-for-8 from 3-point range and 5-for-17 from the field.

Minnesota swung the game late with a 14-2 run in the fourth quarter, turning a three-point deficit into a lead they held through the final minutes. Julius Randle led the Timberwolves with 21 points and 10 rebounds.

Edwards, playing his first game back asourceser a knee injury, came off the bench on a minutes restriction and scored 18 points in 25 minutes.

Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Wednesday in San Antonio.