Timberwolves Beat Spurs in Game 1 After Late Comeback

The Minnesota Timberwolves snatched Game 1 from the San Antonio Spurs with a late surge, winning 125-112. This is a key win to start their playoff series.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

SPURS HELD LEAD, BUT WOLVES ERUPTED LATE TO CLAIM GAME 1

The Minnesota Timberwolves have taken the initial advantage in their playoff series against the San Antonio Spurs, securing a hard-fought victory in Game 1. The Spurs held leads for significant portions of the contest, even going up by seven points in the third quarter and maintaining a slim margin late into the fourth. However, a late surge by the Timberwolves, coupled with crucial plays from their key personnel, ultimately tipped the scales in their favor.

Takeaways: Timberwolves steal Game 1 in San Antoni... - 1

Early indicators from the match suggest a tight, back-and-forth affair. For extended periods, neither team managed to establish a substantial lead, with the score remaining close. Victor Wembanyama's contributions were noted, with a layup extending the Spurs' advantage in the second quarter. De'Aaron Fox was a standout for San Antonio, reportedly leading the team with 25 points.

Read More: Knights Win Game 1 After No-Icing Call Leads to Late Goal

Takeaways: Timberwolves steal Game 1 in San Antoni... - 2

TIMBERWOLVES SHOW FOURTH-QUARTER METTLE

The narrative of Game 1 pivoted significantly in the final period. While the Spurs, led by a layup from Harrison Barnes, managed to hold an 84-81 lead with just over eight minutes remaining, the Timberwolves responded with a decisive offensive push. Naz Reid was instrumental during this crucial stretch, contributing six points to an important run. This performance was part of a broader offensive display that saw Minnesota take a double-digit lead, ultimately securing a comfortable 125-112 win.

Takeaways: Timberwolves steal Game 1 in San Antoni... - 3

"They took another double-digit lead Sunday against the Spurs, and for a change, they were able to win comfortably, securing a 125-112 victory at Target Center."

The Timberwolves' strategic decision to "go small" in the fourth quarter, notably keeping center Rudy Gobert on the bench, appeared to pay dividends against a San Antonio team that was reportedly without the defensive presence of Victor Wembanyama for the latter stages.

PAST ENCOUNTERS SHOW PRECEDENCE FOR WOLVES' OFFENSIVE POWER

This latest victory extends a recent trend of strong performances by the Timberwolves against the Spurs. In prior matchups this season, Minnesota has demonstrated a potent offense, notching significant wins. One such game saw Anthony Edwards lead the charge with 25 points, a performance that contributed to a 141-124 victory. That win marked their fifth consecutive victory and their highest scoring output of the season.

Read More: Timberwolves Beat Spurs 104-102 in Playoff Game 1

In that March 10, 2025 encounter, Naz Reid also put up strong numbers with 20 points and seven rebounds, while Julius Randle added 14 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds. The Timberwolves' ability to generate second-chance points was also highlighted in this earlier game, with 30 such opportunities converted. Jaden McDaniels also chipped in with 16 points.

PREVIOUS PLAYOFF CONTEXT

Looking at the broader playoff landscape, the Timberwolves have already navigated a challenging first-round series, eliminating the Denver Nuggets in six games. Their upcoming opponent, the Spurs, advanced by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 4-1. Meanwhile, the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Phoenix Suns.

"The Minnesota Timberwolves eliminate (3) Denver Nuggets 4-2 Game 1: Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 105 Game 2: Timberwolves 119, Nuggets 114 Game 3: Timberwolves 113, Nuggets 96 Game 4: Timberwolves 112, Nuggets 96 Game 5: Nuggets 125, Timberwolves 113 Game 6: Timberwolves 110, Nuggets 98"

"Round 2 opponent: San Antonio Spurs (2) San Antonio Spurs eliminate (7) Portland Trail Blazers 4-1"

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Minnesota Timberwolves win Game 1 against the San Antonio Spurs?
The Minnesota Timberwolves won Game 1 by coming back late in the fourth quarter. They were behind for much of the game, even trailing by seven points in the third quarter, but a strong offensive push in the final period secured a 125-112 victory.
Q: What was the score difference in the fourth quarter of Timberwolves vs. Spurs Game 1?
The Timberwolves took a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter after trailing for most of the game. With just over eight minutes left, the Spurs led 84-81, but the Timberwolves then went on a run to secure their win.
Q: Who were the key players in the Timberwolves' Game 1 win over the Spurs?
Naz Reid was important for the Timberwolves in the fourth quarter, scoring six points during a key run. De'Aaron Fox led the Spurs with 25 points. The Timberwolves' strategy to 'go small' in the fourth quarter also seemed effective.
Q: What is the current playoff series score between the Timberwolves and the Spurs after Game 1?
After Game 1, the Minnesota Timberwolves lead the series against the San Antonio Spurs 1-0. The Timberwolves secured the initial advantage with their comeback victory.
Q: How have the Timberwolves performed against the Spurs recently before this playoff game?
The Timberwolves have a good recent record against the Spurs. Earlier this season, Minnesota had a strong offensive performance, including a 141-124 win on March 10, 2025, which was their fifth straight win against San Antonio.