The Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the San Antonio Spurs 114–109 in a tightly contested matchup at the Target Center on May 11, 2026. In a game that featured multiple lead changes and high-intensity defense down the stretch, the Timberwolves managed to hold off a late Spurs rally to secure a crucial home victory. The win improved Minnesota’s position in the Western Conference playoff race, while San Antonio dropped another close contest in their rebuilding season.
Game Overview & Key Moments
From the opening tip, both teams came out with energy. The Spurs surprised the home crowd with a fast start, using crisp ball movement and transition buckets to build an early 8-point lead in the first quarter. However, Minnesota responded behind their defensive anchor Rudy Gobert, who altered shots and grabbed key rebounds to slow San Antonio’s momentum. The Timberwolves closed the first half on a 14–4 run, taking a 56–51 lead into the locker room.
The third quarter saw the Spurs fight back behind Victor Wembanyama’s versatility. The young star scored 12 points in the period, including a pair of three-pointers that kept San Antonio within striking distance. But Minnesota’s backcourt duo of Anthony Edwards and Mike Conley proved too clutch in the final minutes. Edwards drove hard to the rim for a vital and-one with 1:34 left, then Conley iced the game with two free throws after a crucial defensive stop.
Standout Performances
Anthony Edwards led all scorers with 31 points on 11-of-21 shooting, adding 6 rebounds and 4 assists. His aggressiveness in the paint and ability to draw fouls (8-of-9 from the free throw line) were instrumental. Rudy Gobert contributed a double-double with 14 points and 16 rebounds, plus 3 blocks, anchoring Minnesota’s interior defense. For the Spurs, Victor Wembanyama posted 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 blocks in a stat-stuffing performance that showcased his unique skill set. Devin Vassell added 22 points off the bench, hitting 4 three-pointers to keep San Antonio in the game.
Impact on the Season & Standings
The win moved the Timberwolves to 48–32 on the season, strengthening their hold on the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference and keeping them within striking distance of home-court advantage in the first round. The Spurs, now 22–58, continued their development year but showed signs of promise, especially in how they competed on the road against a playoff-bound opponent. For Minnesota, the victory was especially meaningful as it came against a team known for its disciplined system, and it demonstrated their growth in closing tight games under pressure.
Looking Ahead
The Timberwolves will next face the Denver Nuggets in a critical late-season clash, while the Spurs return home to host the Memphis Grizzlies. If Minnesota can maintain this level of defensive intensity and clutch execution, they will be a dangerous opponent come playoff time. As for San Antonio, the experience gained in games like this will be invaluable for their young core’s development as they look toward the future.

