The Minnesota Timberwolves split a back-to-back series with the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night, picking up a 96-88 win to snap an eight-game losing streak.
The Timberwolves played Sunday’s game without Karl-Anthony Towns, who sat out after returning on Saturday night. While his absence wasn’t a setback, it was another obstacle for the Wolves, who came into Sunday losing all seven games without their star in the lineup.
Despite Towns’ absence, the Timberwolves played well in the first half behind the strength of their bench. With Ricky Rubio (8 points, 6 assists) and Josh Okogie (6 points, 3 rebounds) leading the charge, the Wolves entered the half down 49-44.
Tricky Ricky's got all the moves.@SharecareInc Share of the Game pic.twitter.com/5jbGwfcQqK
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 11, 2021
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NONSTOP 💨💨 pic.twitter.com/MndywdDaES
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 11, 2021
The Timberwolves also put forth a solid defensive effort, but couldn’t find an answer to stop Lonnie Walker IV. With a career-high in points by halftime, Walker had 25 points on the night to help the Spurs hang onto their lead heading into the fourth quarter.
The Timberwolves made their move in the final frame behind the duo of D’Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley. Russell led the Wolves with 27 points on the night and Beasley chipped in 24 as Minnesota made a late run to take the lead.
❄️❄️ ICE COLD DLO ❄️❄️ pic.twitter.com/Tds81FqwbY
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 11, 2021
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MB5MB5MB5 pic.twitter.com/DOPV6zNueY— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 11, 2021
With the Wolves’ backcourt leading the way, Minnesota earned its first win without Towns and improved to 3-8 on the season. The Wolves will look to continue their momentum when they host Memphis on Wednesday night.
