In a remarkable comeback, the New Orleans Pelicans overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 114-96 at the Smoothie King Center.
Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 22 points, while Kelly Olynyk contributed a double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Karlo Matković added a season-high 19 points, and Trey Murphy III chipped in 15 points.
The Spurs started strong, building a 64-47 lead early in the third quarter. However, their shooting faltered, finishing the game at just 33% from the field and 29.4% from beyond the arc. Keldon Johnson and Julian Champagnie each scored 18 points for San Antonio spurs.
The turning point came in the second half, where the Pelicans outscored the Spurs 74-43. A decisive 13-0 run at the start of the fourth quarter sealed the victory for New Orleans. 
This loss adds to the Spurs’ recent struggles, having dropped 14 of their last 20 games. The team has been adjusting under acting head coach Mitch Johnson, following Gregg Popovich’s mild stroke in November. The absence of key player Victor Wembanyama, sidelined for the season due to a shoulder blood clot, has also significantly impacted the team’s performance. 
The Pelicans’ victory improves their record to 14-43, while the Spurs fall to 24-31. Both teams will look to regroup as they continue their seasons.
STORY BY SALIFU ZAKARI ZEBA
