Victor Wembanyama Seeks Redemption in Austin After Shooting Woes Against Oklahoma City
Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are preparing to face the Houston Rockets on Friday in the Spurs’ home-away-from-home in Austin, some ninety miles north of the Alamo City, following a season-opening loss. Wembanyama struggled immensely in Tuesday’s 116-104 defeat against the rival Oklahoma City Thunder, missing 12 of his 13 shots from the floor. Despite finishing the night with 12 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocked shots, the star center admitted he was just as stunned by his offensive output as the fans.
The matchup on Friday takes place in Austin, some ninety miles north of the Alamo City, serving as the Spurs’ home-away-from-home game. This contest marks the opening leg of a demanding back-to-back stretch for San Antonio, which travels north to play the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The compressed NBA schedule offers no time for dwelling on missed opportunities, providing Wembanyama an immediate chance to recalibrate his approach on the court.
Wembanyama Aims to Simplify His Game and Rediscover Fun
Reflecting on his struggles against Oklahoma City, Wembanyama expressed a desire to strip away his overthinking and return to an instinctive style of play. “I need to go back to playing the basketball I like,” Wembanyama said. “This is not the sport I like right here. I’ve got no reason to be hesitant, no reason to not be myself. For me, it’s as simple as that. I’m good when I have fun.” He added that he might be overanalyzing possessions and needs to let go of the pressure to do more.
San Antonio’s new three-guard starting lineup showed encouraging signs despite the opening-night loss. Stephon Castle led the team with 24 points, Dylan Harper added 18, and D’Aaron Fox chipped in 14. Teammate Dylan Harper voiced confidence in the backcourt’s trajectory, stating that better days are ahead for the unit. Meanwhile, the Spurs’ defense anchored by Wembanyama’s six blocks kept them competitive before the Thunder pulled away.
Houston Rockets Arrive in Austin Following Dominant Victory Over Dallas
The Houston Rockets make the trip to Austin carrying momentum from a 128-110 home victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, October 22, 2026. Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. powered the Rockets’ offense with 30 points apiece, while Alperen Sengun contributed 23 points and 10 rebounds. Houston seized control of the game by outscoring Dallas 38-12 in the second quarter, building a lead as large as 37 points in the third period before easing off. The Rockets finished the game shooting 53.4% from the field and 44.4% from beyond the arc.