Full Breakdown
Spurs Rally Past Trail Blazers to Lead Series 3-1
4/28/2026, 10:01:55 AM
Game 4: Spurs Overcome 17-Point Deficit
In Game 4 of the Western Conference first-round series, the San Antonio Spurs erased a 17-point halftime deficit to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 114-93. The victory gave San Antonio a 3-1 series lead and marked the first NBA playoff team to trail by 15 points or more at halftime and win by 15 points or more. The Spurs outscored Portland 73-35 in the second half, a 38-point differential that ranks second-largest for a half in playoff history.
Series Context and Wembanyama’s Return
Victor Wembanyama suffered a concussion in the first half of Game 2 and missed Game 3 while the league’s concussion protocol was applied. He was cleared to return an hour before tip-off of Game 4. His return coincided with a 13-0 run that gave the Spurs the lead early in the third quarter and set the stage for the comeback.
Key Performers
- Victor Wembanyama – 27 points, 11 or 12 rebounds, 7 blocks, 4 steals.
- De’Aaron Fox (Spurs) – 28 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds.
- Devin Vassell – 9 points in the third quarter, total 11 points.
- Jrue Holiday (Blazers) – 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists.
Portland’s interior production fell from 20 first-half paint points to 38 total, while San Antonio posted 34 paint points in the second half.
Statistical Highlights
- Halftime score: Portland 58, San Antonio 41.
- Second-half points: Spurs 73, Blazers 35.
- Field-goal shooting: Portland 3-14 in the fourth quarter; Spurs 12-? (overall).
- Turnovers: Portland 18, many occurring early in the second half.
- Historical note: First team to trail by >=15 at halftime and win by >=15; second-largest half-point swing (38) in playoff history.
Official Statements & Responses
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson said the team was prepared to compete with or without Wembanyama, emphasizing the staff’s ability to maintain identity despite roster changes. He noted the Spurs’ “tremendous gall” in responding to the Blazers’ early lead. De’Aaron Fox described the comeback as a collective “fight back,” stressing the need to identify and fix issues when the team fell behind. Victor Wembanyama expressed gratitude toward the Spurs’ medical staff while acknowledging the emotional weight of the situation.
Criticism of Concussion Protocol
Wembanyama publicly labeled the league’s handling of his concussion protocol as “very disappointing.” He declined to detail the grievance, stating he did not want the issue to become a distraction and would address it after the season. His comments highlight ongoing player concerns about the timing and transparency of NBA medical clearances.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's special, obviously,” — Victor Wembanyama, post-game interview.
- “The way the situation was handled was very disappointing.” — Victor Wembanyama, post-game interview.
- “We've had to fight back,” — De’Aaron Fox, post-game interview.
- “That's Vic being the best player in the world and we know that he can do that,” — Devin Vassell, post-game interview.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Wembanyama’s rebound total: some list 11 rebounds (NBA.com, AP), while others record 12 rebounds (ESPN). All sources agree on his 27 points and 7 blocks. No additional statistical discrepancies were identified.
Outlook for Game 5
Game 5 shifts to the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. With Wembanyama listed on the injury report as cleared, the Spurs aim to close the series at home. Portland must address its second-half scoring collapse and turnover rate to force a return to Portland for a potential series-tying Game 6.
