Grades: San Antonio Spurs vs. Atlanta Hawks – Game #27
Victor Wembanyama came up big when it mattered most (Photo via X)
In a game full of runs, the San Antonio Spurs had the last laugh and notched a 133-126 overtime victory over the Atlanta Hawks. The Spurs improved to 14-13 with the win, while the Hawks fell to 14-14
San Antonio and Atlanta traded leads in the first half by way of sustained runs. The Hawks had the final run of the second quarter but the Spurs were able to erase the halftime deficit by playing really well in the third quarter.
The fourth quarter featured back and forth big shots. Neither team could get much of an advantage and the game went into overtime.
In overtime, Victor Wembanyama stole the show, put his teammates on his back and made the Hawks pay for taunting him late in the fourth quarter.
Stats: Spurs vs. Hawks
Spurs vs. Hawks – Final Grades
Victor Wembanyama
It was simply another great game for Wembanyama. He hit seven three-pointers, went to the line 12 times and had a couple memorable moments at the rim. Wembanyama also passed well and was uber active on defense. However, what really stood out for the tall Frenchman against the Hawks was his play in overtime. He played like a man possessed and actually outscored the Hawks in the extra session all by himself.
Grade: A
Devin Vassell
For the first time this season, Vassell was back in the starting lineup. With his minutes restriction apparently a thing of the past, he did really well versus Atlanta. Vassell’s 5-for-7 shooting from three-point territory was huge. He hit timely shots when it mattered most and, importantly, he stayed within the offense. Overall, I liked his decision-making and his effort on defense. Hopefully Vassell keeps thriving as a starter.
Grade: A-
Chris Paul
Talk about picking spots well, Paul posted 12 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and four steals while going a perfect 4-for-4 from the field, including a trio of triples. He knocked down clutch shots, kept the offense humming and was a bulldog on defense. Paul’s leadership was palpable throughout. He had an injury scare late but seemed to shake it off and kept making winning plays.
Grade: A-
Jeremy Sochan
Sochan was pretty solid. There were possessions where he lost focus on defense, his rebounding effort was sporadic and he sometimes got in the way on offense — but Sochan definitely did more good than bad. He put an efficient 20 points on the scoreboard while knocking down a three-pointer. Sochan’s passing was also a plus. He could have played a little bit smarter on both ends but, again, he was solid.
Grade: B
Harrison Barnes
Barnes started but played only 18 minutes. Limiting his minutes was a correct move by the coaching staff. He shot poorly, his defense was slow and he wasn’t helping on the boards. Barnes is struggling to string together strong performances. He’s too willing to fade into the background when he’s on the court.
Grade: C-
Keldon Johnson
The good: Johnson was a positive asset on the offensive side of the court. He shot well and he also passed the ball well. Decision-making has been an issue this season for Johnson but it was better against the Hawks. I also liked his effort rebounding-wise. The bad: Johnson’s defense was really bad at times. Atlanta didn’t always make him pay but he needs to lock in more on that end of the court to keep a sizable spot in the rotation.
Grade: B
Julian Champagnie
Coming off the bench for the first time this season, Champagnie was still productive. His shot wasn’t as straight as usual but he still found ways to aid the cause. He was attentive on the boards, passed the ball well and was active on defensive. Hopefully Champagnie can keep thriving off the bench because he has been a pleasant surprise this season.
Grade: B
Stephon Castle
Castle is another player who needs to adjust to a reserve role. Versus Atlanta, the rookie dealt with growing pains. I didn’t love his shot selection, his jumpers looked flat and the Hawks were able to rush him at times. To Castle’s credit, he still authored impressive passes. Unfortunately, his defensive impact was minimal and he was uncharacteristically lethargic on that end.
Grade: C-
Tre Jones
Back from a shoulder sprain, Jones got 14 minutes against the Hawks. He did an adequate job running the show but it was ugly when he tried to call his own number. He had trouble getting around his man and also tossed up an airball from three-point land. Defensively, Jones was a step below his normal level.
Grade: C
Charles Bassey
Bassey didn’t waste any time trying to get involved. His production was impressive for eight minutes of playing time. That said, his defense left a lot to be desired and he missed some easy layups on the other end.
Grade: C
Mitch Johnson
Johnson used Wembanyama well throughout the night. I liked getting Vassell into the starting lineup but the bench unit needs to find a rhythm. The rotation is definitely a work in progress.
Grade: B