The San Antonio Spurs ended their six-year postseason drought on Sunday, after registering a 111-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers at the Frost Bank Center. But even after a record-breaking night from Victor Wembanyama, the victory couldn’t mask the difficulties of a young roster that is still “settling in” and slowly learning to navigate the high stakes of the NBA playoffs.
Danny Green, a three-time NBA champion, saw some immaturity in the Spurs’ execution. Still, he looks forward to seeing how the team handles the next games and the ups and downs of a playoff run.
Danny Green Thinks the Young Spurs Are Still Settling In
The Spurs put on a solid contest against the Blazers. By half-time, they were 59-49 against the Blazers. They dropped another 28 points in the third quarter and entered the fourth quarter with a 15-point lead (87-72). Wembanyama, 22, delivered a spectacular debut for the Spurs, scoring 35 points and breaking Tim Duncan’s 32-point franchise playoff record from 1998.
WEMBY’S PLAYOFF DEBUT WAS HISTORIC 👽
35 PTS
5 THREES
2 BLK
GAME 1 WINHe sets the Spurs franchise record for MOST PTS in a playoff debut AND becomes the ONLY player in NBA history with at least 35 PTS & 5 3PM in a playoff debut! pic.twitter.com/uHBFmQyN6k
— NBA (@NBA) April 20, 2026
But for Danny Green, the former Spurs champion, San Antonio’s young roster’s inability to defend the Blazers showcased a weak link. On the latest episode of the No Fouls Given podcast, the veteran noted that despite the double-digit win, the lack of experience was very evident on the court.
“About Portland, I’m coming out very comfortable. Yeah. You lost by what, 12 or 13, and it was like they were in striking distance for most of the game from three, like they usually shoot better from three, and I think they found some weaknesses. Not saying they are going to beat them, but they can definitely keep it closer and make it competitive, where they can win a game or two. Um, so that’s why I said when I said the Spurs came out slow, they showed some youth and immaturity,” said Green.
The Spurs shot 40-of-84 (47.6%) from the field, 15-of-33 three-pointers (45.5%), and 16-of-19 (84.2%) from the charity stripe.
After the win, Wembanyama said, “It is obviously different, but we’ve been really good in the regular season. So, we have no reason to act differently or do anything different.” Wemby’s comment emphasizes how the everyday routine builds a steady muscle memory and molds a culture that isn’t based on winning or losing, but on giving the utmost best.
San Antonio Spurs’ Next Generation
Green’s focus is on the young Spurs, who showed playoff nerves. Rookie Dylan Harper, who averaged 11.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists on 50.5% shooting during the regular season, contributed 6 points on 3-for-7 shooting in Game 1. Wembanyama contributed 5 rebounds and shot 13-of-21 from the field, along with being the highest scorer of the night.
Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox each scored 17 points, combining for 15 assists. Devin Vassell added 15 points and 3 rebounds.
Green’s reference to immaturity showed in San Antonio’s perimeter defense. Portland’s Deni Avdija exploited these gaps for 30 points on 12-of-21 shooting. Meanwhile, the Spurs struggled with turnovers at crucial times.
With the series moving to Game 2 on Tuesday night, the San Antonio Spurs lead 1-0. Their biggest challenge will be managing their youth while capitalizing on Wembanyama’s efficiency.
