Pelicans Overcome Slow Start to Defeat Spurs 109-103

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The New Orleans Pelicans triumphed over the San Antonio Spurs 109-103 on Tuesday night at the Smoothie King Center, overcoming a 19-point deficit to secure the victory. This win marks a successful back-to-back for the Pelicans against the Spurs, having previously defeated them 114-96 on Sunday.

Head coach Willie Green had emphasized the importance of mental focus before the game, asking whether his team could replicate their previous performance. “Can you come back the next game against the same opponent and do it again?” Green inquired. The answer from his players was a resounding yes.

Trey Murphy led the Pelicans with 24 points, four rebounds, and four assists, while Zion Williamson contributed 18 points and six rebounds. “I’m really proud of our guys,” Green stated. “Hard to beat a team two games in a row. Execute and try to be dominant in this series.”

Despite a slow start where the Pelicans managed just three field goals in the first quarter, they regrouped and trailed 24-8 as the first period came to a close. The team made a notable improvement in the second quarter, outscoring the Spurs 30-20 and closing the gap to just two points by halftime.

Pelicans center Karlo Matkovic had a pivotal role in the second quarter, hitting back-to-back three-pointers that sparked a rally. Newcomer Bruce Brown also made significant contributions, finishing with eight points, six rebounds, and six assists.

Murphy credited the second half’s success to improved defense, which allowed the Pelicans to transition effectively. “Defense getting stops, we got out in transition, and it just changed the energy and pace of the game,” he explained.

The Pelicans took their first lead of the night with a layup by Jordan Hawkins early in the fourth quarter. New Orleans took decisive control in the final quarter, outscoring San Antonio 30-20 to clinch the win. The Pelicans dominated the paint, scoring 66 points there compared to the Spurs’ 44.

San Antonio’s shooting woes played a significant factor in the game, as they recorded 40.9% from the field, including just 29.5% from beyond the arc. Keldon Johnson and Julian Champagnie each contributed 18 points for the Spurs, while De’Aaron Fox and Harrison Barnes added 13 apiece.

The win brings New Orleans’ record to 15-43 as they prepare for a challenging four-game road trip against teams like the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers. Green expressed confidence in his team’s potential for growth this season, stating, “I’m really excited about this group. They are locked into the details and playing for each other.”