The [Trail Blazers](/nba/team/_/name/por/portland-trail-blazers) saw their opportunity to secure Group C in the NBA Cup of the West frustrated after falling to the [San Antonio Spurs](/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs) with a score of 115-102 at the Moda Center. This match represented a valuable opportunity for both teams, who are looking to leave behind seasons without a presence in the playoffs.
Avdija, with 37 points, led the Blazers. The player highlighted the intensity of the match, comparing it to a playoff game, and emphasized the value of learning from this experience. The Blazers relied on the experience of Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III, while the Spurs presented a team with more playoff experience, including Harrison Barnes, De’Aaron Fox, and Luke Kornet. San Antonio coach Mitch Johnson emphasized the importance of the game against the Nuggets, which will define the pass to the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup.We wanted that victory. It was a good opportunity to advance in the Cup. We fought, we tried to stay in the game. It was a tough game, a close game.
Deni Avdija
Fox, with 37 points, was key for the Spurs, showing his ability to lead the team. Coach Johnson praised Fox, highlighting his experience and his impact on the team. The Blazers will look to capitalize on the lessons learned in this encounter, while San Antonio advances in the NBA Cup.Obviously, players want to get to Las Vegas, they want to play in the championship game. I don’t know how it will be in other locker rooms, but in the two I’ve been in, I don’t know if I’d say the guys are playing harder, but the guys know what’s at stake and it’s definitely mentioned.
De’Aaron Fox
