Fast Start Sets the Tone
San Antonio got off to a flying start on Friday night, opening with an 18-0 run against the Golden State Warriors. The Spurs dominated from the start, securing a 123-85 victory in their NBA Cup matchup. That opening stretch was the largest for San Antonio over the last 30 seasons. It was also the biggest run allowed at the start of a game by Golden State under head coach Steve Kerr.
San Antonio extended their winning streak to 11 games, the longest active streak in the league. Victor Wembanyama highlighted the early push with a reverse dunk off a lob tossed by Stephon Castle. "I'm ready to put my body on the line for the team if that allows us to win by 40," Wembanyama said.
Castle Delivers Big Performance
Stephon Castle caused major problems for the Warriors right from the start. He made his first three 3-pointers in the first quarter and finished with a season high 32 points in 25 minutes. Castle finished 5 of 8 from deep, adding five rebounds, six assists, and a block.
Castle scored 13 points in the opening quarter on 5 of 7 shooting. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praised Castle, calling him an unbelievable impact player who attacks everything asked of him. Castle explained that he succeeded by coming in with a clear mind and focusing on team principles.
Warriors Struggling Without Curry
Golden State played without leading scorer Stephen Curry, who is out for at least two weeks with an oblique abdominal tear. Without him, the Warriors failed to hold a lead at any point for the second straight game. San Antonio built a 26 point lead in the first quarter and took a 30 point lead into halftime.
The lead expanded to 43 points late in the third quarter when Harrison Barnes hit a 24-footer to put San Antonio ahead 95-52. This was the largest loss for Golden State since January 20, 2025, when they lost by 40 to the Celtics. Kerr called San Antonio "the best team in the league, the hottest team in the league."
Defensive Focus Carries San Antonio
San Antonio proved that their defensive discipline is key to their success. Castle pointed out that defense creates many of their scoring runs, allowing them to stay in control even if shooting slows down. He added that "showing up on defense is really a non-negotiable" for the team.
With strong defense sparking their offense, San Antonio never gave Golden State a chance to recover. The victory keeps San Antonio in excellent form as they continue their run in the NBA Cup.
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