Sun Nov 24 00:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Spurs Rally Past Jazz in Absence of Wembanyama

**SAN ANTONIO, TX** – The San Antonio Spurs overcame an 18-point deficit to defeat the Utah Jazz 126-118 on Thursday night, securing their second consecutive victory without injured rookie Victor Wembanyama. Harrison Barnes led the Spurs with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while rookie Stephon Castle contributed 18 points. Zach Collins added 18 points and Chris Paul chipped in 13 points and 10 assists.

The Spurs’ comeback was fueled by a dominant second half, outscoring the Jazz 75-51. Center Charles Bassey provided a crucial spark, recording 11 points, eight rebounds, and a career-high six blocks. His late-game hustle, including a key block and an alley-oop score, helped swing the momentum decisively in San Antonio’s favor.

Utah’s Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 27 points, and Keyonte George added 19, but the team’s second-half turnovers and inability to match the Spurs’ intensity proved costly. The Jazz suffered their fourth straight loss.

Both Wembanyama (bruised right knee) and Devin Vassell (sore left knee) missed their third consecutive game, but acting head coach Mitch Johnson expressed optimism about their imminent return. The Spurs, now 8-8 on the season, have already surpassed last year’s win total at this point in the season.

The Jazz will host the New York Knicks, and the Spurs will face the Golden State Warriors, both on Saturday.

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