Spurs Get Embarrassed by Hornets in Third Game of Rodeo Road Trip

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Feb 7, 2025 9:36 PM ET

The San Antonio Spurs continued the Rodeo Road Trip on Friday night, taking on the lowly Charlotte Hornets. The Spurs were favored by double-digits but struggled to get it going, losing a close game 117-116

After losing a lead in the opening minutes of the game, the Spurs trailed by as many as 19 points and managed to come back in the final 40 seconds. De'Aaron Fox hit a floater with 45 seconds left, then nailed a shot with 7.9 seconds left to give the Spurs a two-point lead.

However, Milal Bridges answered with a 3-pointer with 1.4 seconds left. Fox hit a 3-pointer to win the game, although the ball was still in his hands when the buzzer sounded.

The Spurs were led by Stephon Castle, who set a career-high with 33 points. The rookie shot 10-15 from the floor and 3-5 from 3-point range, showcasing why he earned Rookie of the Month honors. Ten of his points came from the charity stripe.

Victor Wembanyama added 16 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks, but he was only able to make one of his 3-point attempts. Jeremy Sochan came off the bench once again, serving as a true center in the second lineup, and he offered a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds.

The Hornets enjoyed a solid game from their young backcourt. LaMelo Ball, who missed the last five games, posted 24 points, and Nick Smith Jr., who is riding a hot streak in recent games, added 19 points.

For good measure, Moussa Diabate posted nine points and 15 rebounds, showcasing to the Hornets that they made the right call by trading away their other two centers for draft picks.

After a 24-point Spurs' debut, Fox shot 9-17 from the floor and offered 22 points and six rebounds.

The Spurs will continue their Rodeo Road Trip with a game against the Orlando Magic on Saturday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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