The New Orleans Pelicans have looked good when Zion Williamson is on the floor this season, but against the San Antonio Spurs, they took a major step forward by maintaining and extending their lead even while he sat on the bench. In a surprising comeback, the Pelicans erased a 17-point deficit and dominated the San Antonio Spurs on their way to a 114-96 win on Sunday night. A strong second-half defensive effort and contributions from the entire roster fueled New Orleans’ second win in its last three games.
Fourth-Quarter Surge
After a disastrous second quarter that left them trailing by 13 at halftime, the Pelicans flipped the script after the break, outscoring the Spurs 74-43 over the final two quarters. The turning point came when Williamson’s and-one layup early in the fourth gave New Orleans its first lead since the opening period. From there, the Pelicans went on a 25-5 run, to put the game out of reach.
New Orleans outscored their counterparts 39-17 in the fourth quarter, shooting 13-of-22 from the floor and 10-of-11 at the free-throw line while holding the Spurs to just four buckets in the final frame.
Balanced Scoring Leads the Way
Williamson led the Pelicans with 22 points and nine rebounds in 29 minutes, but it was a team effort that secured the win. Six other Pelicans reached double figures, including:
- Karlo Matkovic (19 points, career-high)
- Kelly Olynyk (14 points, 15 rebounds, double-double)
- Trey Murphy III (15 points)
- Jose Alvarado (12 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 turnover)
- CJ McCollum (12 points)
- Jordan Hawkins (10 points)
Olynyk, making his home debut after being acquired in the trade for Brandon Ingram, was a major factor, posting a +21 plus-minus and is +32 in 48 minutes over two games.
Defense Steps Up
New Orleans’ defense made life miserable for San Antonio, holding the Spurs to just 33% shooting from the field and 29% from beyond the arc. The Pelicans nearly set a season-low for opponent scoring, with only a late Jordan McLaughlin three preventing them from holding San Antonio under 94 points.
Despite an 18-point effort from both Julian Champagnie and Keldon Johnson, the Spurs couldn’t generate much offense. With Victor Wembanyama out, San Antonio struggled to find consistent scoring options.
Wembanyama’s absence was really felt on the boards, as the Pelicans controlled the rebounding battle 69-46, with a relentless effort on the offensive glass (17).
The Pelicans and Spurs will face off again in New Orleans on Tuesday night, giving Willie Green’s squad a chance to build some momentum.
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