Spurs edge Raptors by 3 points in NBA thriller

The win keeps the Spurs within striking distance of the Western Conference leaders, the Oklahoma City Thunder, who were defeated 124-116 by the Detroit Pistons.

In the first game, Devin Vassell and De’Aaron Fox starred with 21 and 20 points, respectively, compensating for a quieter offensive performance from French star Victor Wembanyama. The victory marks San Antonio’s longest winning streak since the 2015-2016 season.

Wembanyama made just three of his 12 field-goal attempts, finishing with 12 points against a tough Raptors defence. However, he converted five of six free throws and made a strong defensive impact with five blocks, including a crucial rejection of Jakob Poeltl’s shot with 44 seconds remaining.

The Spurs improved their record to 42 wins and 16 losses, trailing Western Conference leaders Oklahoma City, who have a 45-15 record, by two games.

In the second matchup, Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren each scored 29 points to lead the Detroit Pistons, who top the Eastern Conference standings, to victory in a clash that could preview an NBA Finals showdown.

The Thunder continue to play without their standout Canadian guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, for the ninth consecutive game because of an abdominal muscle strain.