A Disappointing Start for the Spurs in 2026

The San Antonio Spurs faced a tough start to their 2026 season, particularly in their first home game at Frost Bank Center. The team struggled significantly, failing to defend the 3-point line and losing control of the boards. This loss marked their fifth defeat at home this season, resulting in an identical 12-5 record both at home and on the road.

Luke Kornet had a brief moment of brilliance, scoring efficiently during a four-minute stretch. However, the Trail Blazers capitalized on the Spurs’ lack of coordination, building a 13-point lead by the end of the first quarter. The Spurs’ offense was out of sync, with poor ball movement and weak help defense. It’s similar to how many employees might feel sluggish after returning from a long break, lacking the usual energy and focus.

One of the key issues for the Spurs was their inability to contain second-chance opportunities, allowing the Trail Blazers to score 13 points off offensive rebounds. Despite this, Julian Champagnie, Stephon Castle, and Kornet combined for seven baskets in the second quarter, narrowing the deficit to just four points at halftime.

A Rollercoaster Third Quarter

The Spurs managed to take the lead a minute into the third quarter when Kornet converted a 3-point play. The game saw nine lead changes before the period ended, with Portland emerging ahead by seven points. Unfortunately, the Spurs couldn’t contain Deni Avdija in the fourth quarter, as he hit two crucial 3-pointers and created several turnovers. The team also struggled with cold shooting in the paint against Portland’s athletic frontcourt, which ultimately led to their downfall.

Key Observations from the Game

The Spurs found themselves in a difficult position, with the offense unable to create enough scoring opportunities. Their only chance for a comeback was through winning ugly, but they fell short due to a lack of 3-point shooting, 16 offensive rebounds allowed, and vulnerabilities in drop coverage.

While records can be misleading, this game highlighted the depth of the Trail Blazers, who are a long and athletic team. The absence of two starters made the game more competitive, but the Spurs still struggled against Donovan Clingan, a 7’2-inch center who dominated in the paint. His size and strength were too much for the Spurs to handle, especially since they couldn’t contest his 3-point attempts. Clingan finished with a career-high 24 points and six offensive rebounds.

Deni Avdija, who turned 25 during the game, proved to be a formidable presence on the court. At 6’8”, he is one of the league’s best penetrators, averaging 20.5 drives to the hoop each night. His ability to attack the rim and create opportunities for teammates made him a significant threat. His size and strength gave him an advantage over many defenders.

With Victor Wembanyama and Devin Vassell sidelined, there was an opportunity for other players to step up. Julian Champagnie seized that chance, becoming the team’s top scorer in the first half with 15 points on 75% shooting. He later added two free throws and finished with 10 rebounds.

Luke Kornet, despite his slow movements, provided steady contributions as a backup big man. He was perfect from the field in five attempts in the first half and had several strong moments throughout the game. Kornet finished with 23 points on 83.3% shooting and eight rebounds.

De’Aaron Fox played a critical role in the fourth quarter, hitting two key 3-pointers that energized the team. Alongside Castle, he targeted Clingan in drop coverage. Although Fox had a chance to take the lead late in the game, he missed a makeable turnaround jumper, which ultimately cost the Spurs the win.