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Spurs Snap Playoff Drought with Wembanyama's Last-Second Heroics

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The San Antonio Spurs clinched their first playoff berth since 2019, ending a six-season postseason drought, with a 101-100 win over the Phoenix Suns on March 20, 2026.
Victor Wembanyama hit a 17-foot jumper with 1.1 seconds left.
Wembanyama finished with 34 points and 12 rebounds.
De'Aaron Fox scored 23 points for the Spurs.
The Spurs are now positioned as a formidable Western Conference contender.

History

Historical Context

The NBA expanded its playoff format in 1984, increasing participation to 16 teams and changing the first round to a best-of-five series. This shift enhanced fan engagement and revenue, coinciding with the rise of franchises like the San Antonio Spurs, established in 1967. Their resurgence, marked by a playoff berth in 2026 after a six-season absence, underscores the league's evolving competitive landscape.

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Story summary

The San Antonio Spurs clinched their first playoff berth since 2019, ending a six-season postseason drought, with a 101-100 win over the Phoenix Suns on March 20, 2026.
Victor Wembanyama hit a 17-foot jumper with 1.1 seconds left.
Wembanyama finished with 34 points and 12 rebounds.
De'Aaron Fox scored 23 points for the Spurs.
The Spurs are now positioned as a formidable Western Conference contender.

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