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Victor Wembanyama Shines with Triple-Double as Spurs Top Pistons

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots over the defense of Detroit Pistons guard Killian Hayes (7) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit.

In an impressive display of skill and versatility, Victor Wembanyama showcased his talent by recording his first triple-double in the NBA. The San Antonio Spurs emerged victorious with a convincing 130-108 win over the struggling Detroit Pistons.

Wembanyama, who was the highly coveted first overall draft pick, made a defining statement against the Pistons, the team that had hoped to secure his services. Despite Detroit having the worst record in the league last season, they were unlucky in the draft lottery, missing out on the first pick.

In just 21 minutes on the court, the 7-foot-3 French phenom displayed his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Wembanyama finished the night with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. While he struggled with his shooting, going 6 of 16 from the field and missing all of his four attempts from beyond the arc, his playmaking skills were on full display. His slick passes and court vision allowed him to surpass his previous season-high of seven assists, making him a triple-double threat every time he steps on the floor.

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, right, is defended by Detroit Pistons guard Killian Hayes during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots over the defense of Detroit Pistons guard Killian Hayes (7) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
Detroit Pistons forward Kevin Knox II (24) and San Antonio Spurs forward Cedi Osman (16) reach for the loose ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
Detroit Pistons head coach Monty Williams signals from the sideline during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the San Antonio Spurs, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich and center Victor Wembanyama (1) dispute a call with referee Josh Tiven (58) during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Detroit Pistons, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) is defended by Detroit Pistons forward Bojan Bogdanovic (44) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

The Spurs, who entered the game with a 5-game losing streak and the second-worst record in the NBA (6-30), took control early on. They established a comfortable lead of 31-19 in the first quarter and never looked back. The Pistons, mired in a brutal losing streak of their own, failed to mount any significant challenge throughout the game, succumbing to their sixth consecutive defeat.

San Antonio had an impressive offensive showing, with eight players scoring in double figures. Keldon Johnson led the team with 17 points, closely followed by Devin Vassell, who contributed 16 points to the winning effort.

Despite the loss, the Pistons had a few standout performances. Jalen Duren recorded 21 points and 12 rebounds, showcasing his potential as a future force in the league. Jaden Ivey added 19 points, though his shooting percentage was subpar, missing 11 of his 18 attempts.

The Pistons, unfortunately, had to play without their star point guard Cade Cunningham, who is sidelined with a strained left knee. Cunningham is expected to miss another week as he recovers from the injury.

Looking ahead, the Spurs will host the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, hoping to build on their recent victory and start a positive momentum. Meanwhile, the Pistons will also have a home game on Friday night, facing off against the Houston Rockets as they seek to end their frustrating losing streak.

Overall, Victor Wembanyama's triple-double performance stood out as the highlight of the game, solidifying him as a rising star in the NBA. With his impressive mix of size, skill, and playmaking ability, he undoubtedly has a bright future ahead.

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