Victor Wembanyama's triumphant return downs Timberwolves in Game 5

Victor Wembanyama was ejected early after committing a flagrant-two foul early in the San Antonio Spurs' Game 4 loss. In Game 5, Wembanyama bounced back against the Minnesota Timberwolves with 27 points, 17 rebounds — and only one foul.

The Spurs big man wasted very little time Tuesday night, putting up 18 points and six rebounds in the first quarter alone. He finished with a plus/minus of +24 as the Spurs moved one win away from the Western Conference finals with a 126-97 win.

Victor Wembanyama led dominating inside effort from San Antonio Spurs

Inside scoring was a huge advantage for the Spurs in Game 5. They had 68 points in the paint compared to 36 for the Timberwolves. The Spurs outrebounded the Wolves, 50-42, and blocked eight shots to the Wolves' four.

Wembanyama seemed better prepared for the Wolves' physical play in Game 5, both strategically and emotionally. Even if he had a scary moment early.

Rudy Gobert was called for a flagrant foul for stepping into Wembanyama's landing space on a three-point attempt, a play that looked like it could have injured Wembanyama's ankle.