Full Breakdown
Spurs Overcome 15-Point Deficit to Beat Blazers 120-108, Take 2-1 Series Lead
4/26/2026, 2:18:58 AM
Game 3 Recap: A Second-Half Collapse
On April 24, 2026, the San Antonio Spurs erased a 15-point third-quarter lead to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 120-108 at the Moda Center. The victory gave San Antonio a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven first-round series. Victor Wembanyama remained on the bench after a concussion in Game 2.
Series Context & Recent Developments
Portland entered Game 3 after splitting the opening two games—losing Game 1, then rallying for a 106-103 win in Game 2 despite Wembanyama’s injury. The Blazers’ franchise was recently sold to a Texas-based group led by billionaire Tom Dundon, amid a $365 million Oregon Legislature renovation plan for the Moda Center. Fans have voiced concerns about Dundon’s cost-cutting, including the absence of complimentary playoff T-shirts.
Key Players & Performances
Portland’s backcourt combined for 50 points: Jrue Holiday led with 29, Scoot Henderson added 21, and Deni Avdija contributed 19 on 3-of-15 shooting. Robert Williams III posted 11 points, nine rebounds and two blocks. San Antonio’s youth duo carried the comeback—Stephon Castle scored a game-high 33 points (10-of-18 shooting, 10-of-11 free throws) and rookie Dylan Harper added 27 points on 9-of-12 shooting with 10 rebounds. The Spurs out-rebounded Portland in the fourth quarter and finished 61-43 in the second half.
Why It Matters
The win restores San Antonio’s momentum and forces Portland to win Game 4 to avoid a 3-1 deficit. The result also intensifies scrutiny of Dundon’s ownership approach, as fans link on-court performance to perceived “cheapness.” Moreover, Wembanyama’s health remains a pivotal variable; his return could reshape the series dynamics.
Official Statements & Responses
Interim head coach Tiago Splitter said the Spurs were “more physical than us” and highlighted their improved rebounding and defensive intensity in the second half. Castle noted the team’s “confidence” and emphasized that “defense and rebounding” were decisive after a slow first half. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson confirmed Wembanyama’s status, stating he remains in concussion protocol and will be cleared only after meeting medical benchmarks.
Criticism & Opposition
Portland supporters criticized Dundon’s frugality, noting the lack of free playoff apparel and labeling the ownership’s actions as “distractions” during a crucial stretch. Fans such as Rich Vigorito urged the organization to “pump the brakes on all the change” and focus on on-court success.
On-the-Ground Reports
More than 20,000 fans filled the Moda Center, chanting “Let’s Go Blazers!” before the game. After the loss, several spectators walked out before the final buzzer, while others expressed disappointment but pledged continued support.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Victor Wembanyama’s availability: Reuters and NBA.com list him as “out” for Game 3, whereas other outlets describe him as “questionable” pending concussion protocol clearance. No official confirmation of his return date was provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “tip on Sunday, Splitter wants the fans to bring it again, too: ”I just feel bad that we couldn’t bring a W.” — Tiago Splitter, interim head coach
- “The game was ours to take,” — Robert Williams III, center
- “We have a lot of confidence in ourselves,” — Stephon Castle, guard
- “We put the game behind us. We understand that we got punched in the mouth and we’ve got to play better,” — Deni Avdija, forward
- “This loss hurts, but we got another one Sunday, so you can’t really hang your hat on it too low,” — Jrue Holiday, guard
