Victor Wembanyama was ejected early in the second quarter as the Minnesota Timberwolves held on for a 114-109 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, tying the Western Conference semifinal series at 2-2.
The 22-year-old French center, who was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year, was tossed with 8:39 left in the second period. After grabbing a rebound, Wembanyama swung his arm while trying to shake off Naz Reid’s defense and made direct contact with Reid’s face. Officials reviewed the play and deemed it a flagrant foul, resulting in immediate ejection.
At the time of his dismissal, Minnesota led 36-34. Wembanyama had played 12 minutes, recording four points, four rebounds and one assist.
“We had to take advantage of Wemby being ejected. They’re still very good without him, but I’m going to give everything I’ve got,” said Anthony Edwards, who led all scorers with 36 points.
Edwards praised his team’s effort: “We did all the little things really well. We fought for every loose ball and grabbed offensive rebounds.”
Rudy Gobert, also from France, posted a double-double with 11 points and 13 rebounds for the Timberwolves at the Target Center in Minneapolis.
Game 5 of the series is scheduled for Tuesday in San Antonio, Texas.