Pelicans vs Spurs: Zion Williamson and Saddiq Bey Lead New Orleans to 104–95 Road Win After Late Collapse and Recovery

San Antonio, Texas — Zion Williamson and Saddiq Bey each recorded 24 points and 10 rebounds as the New Orleans Pelicans recovered from a blown 20 point lead to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 104–95 on Sunday night in a pivotal Western Conference matchup.

New Orleans built a commanding advantage that reached 19 points midway through the third quarter, forcing Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson to substitute his entire starting lineup following a timeout. The move sparked a dramatic momentum shift, as San Antonio responded with a 21–4 run bridging the third and fourth quarters, including 16 consecutive points, to erase the deficit and flip the game’s trajectory.

The Spurs opened the fourth quarter on a 24–5 surge and took a 93–89 lead when Stephon Castle converted a free throw with 4 minutes and 39 seconds remaining. However, New Orleans stabilized defensively and closed the game on a 17–3 run, preventing a season sweep and securing its second straight victory.

Williamson controlled the interior on both ends of the floor while Bey delivered his most complete performance of the season, combining scoring, rebounding and transition defense. Trey Murphy III added 17 points, 9 assists and 6 rebounds, providing playmaking stability as the Pelicans executed late possessions with discipline and pace.

Victor Wembanyama led San Antonio with 16 points, 16 rebounds and 4 blocks, continuing his two way impact as a franchise cornerstone. Keldon Johnson scored 15 points, while Devin Vassell returned to the rotation for the first time since December 29 after a strained left adductor, finishing with 13 points in 25 minutes. His return marked the first time San Antonio had its full rotation available in over a month.

Free throw execution proved decisive. San Antonio finished 19 of 32 at the line and missed its final four attempts during the closing minutes, including key possessions while trailing 98–93. New Orleans capitalized on those missed opportunities with efficient late game execution and defensive stops.

The result reinforces New Orleans’ growth in late game management after recent collapses and highlights the importance of Williamson’s interior presence in controlling tempo and closing possessions. For San Antonio, the rally showed resilience and depth, but execution, free throw efficiency and late game decision making remain developmental priorities for a young roster centered around Wembanyama.

The Pelicans will host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night, while the Spurs travel to Houston on Wednesday night as both teams continue pivotal stretches in their Western Conference schedules.