Clippers Secure Fourth Place With Win Over Spurs

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The Los Angeles Clippers surged into fourth place in the Western Conference after defeating the San Antonio Spurs 122-117 on April 8, 2025. Ivica Zubac dominated the court with a remarkable performance, posting 24 points and grabbing 20 rebounds. Meanwhile, James Harden contributed significantly with 25 points, helping propel the Clippers to their fifth consecutive victory.

With a record of 47-32, the Clippers stand next to the Los Angeles Lakers, who currently hold third place at 48-31, and maintain a tiebreaker advantage over fellow contenders Denver, Memphis, and Golden State, all tied with the same record with just three games left in the regular season.

Although Kawhi Leonard did not play due to ongoing issues with his right knee, he is expected to return for the upcoming matchup against second-place Houston. Leonard, named the Western Conference player of the week, played back-to-back games last weekend, marking a significant moment in his 13-season career.

The Spurs struggled throughout the game, having lost eight of their last nine overall. Keldon Johnson led the Spurs with 24 points, while Devin Vassell added 19 points in what marked his 500th career game.

A crucial moment in the game came when the Clippers launched an 18-3 run within the first four minutes of the second half, creating an advantage they maintained throughout the contest. Despite a late rally from the Spurs, they failed to fully close the gap.

Key statistics from the game highlighted the Clippers’ strength, as they out-rebounded the Spurs 50-34. Zubac’s performance was historic; he became the first Clippers player since Elton Brand in 2005 to register at least 20 points, 20 rebounds, and five assists in a game, and he is also on a streak with 12 consecutive double-doubles, a feat not seen since Chris Paul’s 14-game stretch in 2013.

Looking ahead, the Clippers are preparing to host the Houston Rockets, while the Spurs are set to visit the Golden State Warriors for their next matchup.