Keldon Johnson Sets Spurs Record for Bench Points Despite Loss to Clippers

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Keldon Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs made history Tuesday night by becoming the highest-scoring player off the bench in a single season, surpassing Manu Ginóbili. Johnson scored 928 points during the 2024-2025 NBA season, claiming the record just as the Spurs faced off against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Despite Johnson’s milestone, the Spurs fell to the Clippers 122-117, extending their losing streak to three games. Johnson, who contributed 12 points in the matchup, acknowledged the importance of finishing the season strong. “The main thing right now is finish out the season strong, finish out the season healthy, and continue to build good habits in these last few games that we have,” he stated.

The Spurs have been eliminated from playoff contention, marking a challenging season with a current record of 32-47. As the season nears its end, Johnson’s score has highlighted his significant role in the team’s performance. Acting coach Mitch Johnson emphasized the need for players to step up, particularly in close game situations. “He has to. That’s part of the deal,” said Mitch Johnson about Keldon’s contributions.

Johnson’s performance this season included an average of 12.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists on 47.5 percent shooting. His record-setting achievement adds to an impressive list of Spurs bench scorers, pushing past legendary figures such as Ginóbili, who scored 927 points in the 2007-08 season.

With just three games remaining in the season, the Clippers find themselves in a competitive playoff race, vying between the No. 3 to No. 8 seed, a tantalizing scenario for both teams. Meanwhile, the Spurs aim to regroup and learn from their setbacks as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Golden State Warriors.

In the post-game discussion, teammate Harrison Barnes praised Mitch Johnson’s leadership amid the challenges of the season, saying, “I think Mitch has done a great job of steadying the ship and being consistent every single day.” This sentiment reflects a collective effort to maintain morale within the team as the season comes to a close.