As Victor Wembanyama continues working his way back to full strength, De’Aaron Fox has taken command of these San Antonio Spurs, leading them to a 115–102 win over the Portland Trail Blazers early this morning in the NBA Cup.
Fox delivered 37 points, eight assists and six rebounds, dominating the final quarter with 14 points to secure the victory. Devin Vassell added 23 points and six rebounds, helping San Antonio keep its NBA Cup hopes alive.
On the other side, Deni Avdija kept Portland competitive, matching Fox with 37 points and handing out eight assists. Jeremy Grant finished with 13 points, Shaedon Sharpe with 11, and both Toumani Camara and Robert Williams added 10 points apiece.
Victor Wembanyamaof the San Antonio Spurs
NBAE via Getty Images
Dylan Harper returns
Rookie Dylan Harper made his return after missing 10 games due to injury. He posted seven points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals in his comeback.
Dylan Harper
Getty Images
Harper was injured during the November 2 loss to the Phoenix Suns and was initially expected to miss several weeks.
He is currently averaging 13 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 37.5% from three.
He ranks sixth among rookies in scoring average and is one of 10 first-year players to record at least one 20-point game this season.
The No. 2 overall pick showed flashes of the production he displayed before hurting his left calf, from his transition attacks to his three-point shooting.
He was also effective off the ball, tipping rebounds and diving for loose possessions.
San Antonio head coach Mitch Johnson praised his return: “He was great for us. We needed his 16 and a half minutes. It’s a pleasure to see him back on the floor. It’s only his seventh game, and he’s been out nearly a month. He was fantastic.”