Wembanyama's 36 points lift Spurs over Jazz in overtime

Victor Wembanyama finished with 36 points and 14 rebounds to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 117-111 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night. The win marked the third straight game for the Spurs, who improved to a 3-2 record. Utah, now 1-4, fell short despite a strong effort from its guards.

The Spurs trailed by as many as 11 points during regulation. They entered halftime behind 55-51. Wembanyama scored 21 points in the first half to keep San Antonio within striking distance. Devin Vassell provided the offensive spark in the second half, scoring 17 of his 21 total points after the break.

Keyonte George led the Jazz with a season-high 31 points. He appeared to fade near the end of regulation and overtime, carrying much of the offensive load. Ace Bailey added 19 points, while rookie Darryn Peterson contributed 18. Peterson did not play during the final minutes of regulation or in overtime. Brice Sensabaugh scored 16 points for Utah.

The Jazz opened the extra period with a three-pointer from Sensabaugh. The Spurs responded with a 12-0 run to seal the win. San Antonio's defensive pressure forced the Jazz into difficult shots near the shot clock. The Spurs caused four turnovers and limited Utah to 2-for-7 shooting from the field in overtime.

The game went to overtime after back-to-back buckets from Sensabaugh and George erased a five-point Spurs lead. San Antonio missed its last four field goal attempts in regulation, including a buzzer-beater from De’Aaron Fox. The Spurs were playing without forward Tobias Harris, who is out with a strained calf.

Utah played without three starting big men. Jaren Jackson has a torn MCL in his right knee. Lauri Markkanen is dealing with a right wrist sprain. Jusuf Nurkic has yet to play this season due to a foot injury. The Spurs have one of the better health outlooks among Western Conference contenders.

The Spurs will host Minnesota on Saturday. The Jazz will host Portland on Saturday.