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The Spurs phenom recorded 10 blocks through three quarters and flirted with a rare points-rebounds-blocks triple-double against the Timberwolves
Victor Wembanyama’s Wembanyama blocks in the 2026 NBA Playoffs keep making history. In Game 1 of the conference semifinals on Monday, May 4, the San Antonio Spurs phenom swatted away 7 blocks in the first half alone against the Minnesota Timberwolves. That total set a franchise record for the most blocks by a Spurs player in a playoff half since 1997. It also put him just one block shy of Dwight Howard’s all-time record for most blocks in any postseason half in the play-by-play era.
A record-setting first half
Wembanyama wasted no time making his presence felt. The 7-foot-4 All-Star controlled the paint from the opening tip. By halftime, his seven blocks had already changed the game’s tone entirely. Minnesota struggled to find clean looks near the basket, and the Timberwolves adjusted their approach as a result. Still, the damage was done.
Wembanyama’s blocks reach double digits
The block party did not slow down after the break. Wembanyama added to his total early in the third quarter and hit the double-digit mark before the period ended. He started the second half with immediate impact, racing past Rudy Gobert for a dunk. Minutes later, he rejected an attempted layup from Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels, sending another clear message to anyone thinking about challenging him at the rim.
By the time 2:36 remained in the third quarter, Wembanyama had recorded 10 blocks. Moreover, he had also added 10 rebounds and 8 points to his line.
A rare triple-double within reach
Those numbers put Wembanyama in position to achieve something few players have ever done. A points-rebounds-blocks triple-double is one of the rarest statistical achievements in professional basketball. With a full fourth quarter still ahead, the record and the milestone both remained very much in play.
For Wembanyama, the entire 2026 playoff run has been a series of firsts. This was his first appearance in the conference semifinal round. Each game has added something new to his postseason story. Based on Monday’s performance, that story is far from finished.
Source: USA TODAY
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