by Rell Wright Pelicans Contributor
In a display of grit and determination, the New Orleans Pelicans stormed back from a 17-point deficit to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 114-96 on Sunday night. Zion Williamson led the charge with 22 points and nine rebounds, fueling a decisive turnaround that turned a potential defeat into a commanding victory.
This win marks another step in the Pelicans’ effort to regain their footing after a challenging 10-game skid earlier in the season. Trailing by double digits late in the second quarter, New Orleans shifted gears in the third, outscoring the Spurs 51-22 in a dominant stretch that showcased the team’s resilience and depth.
Rookie sensations Yves Missi and Karlo Matkovic made their presence felt, combining for 25 points and 21 rebounds, while Trey Murphy III and Jose Alvarado added crucial scoring off the bench. The Pelicans’ defense clamped down on San Antonio, holding them to just 33% shooting from the field and under 30% from beyond the arc.
Williamson’s and-one layup over Keldon Johnson in the fourth quarter marked a pivotal moment, sparking a decisive 25-5 run that sealed the win. As the Pelicans gear up for Tuesday’s rematch, the squad will look to build on this momentum, proving they are far from out of the postseason conversation.
