The San Antonio Spurs aim for their sixth victory in seven games when they visit the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night in an NBA Cup matchup.
Victor Wembanyama is coming off his third career triple-double, recording 34 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists in Sunday’s 127-125 road victory over the Sacramento Kings.
Wembanyama knocked down five 3-pointers and blocked three shots, once again displaying his unique versatility.
The second-year pro has topped 30 points in four of his past seven games, including a career-high 50 against the Washington Wizards on November 13.
Despite his impressive production, Wembanyama often faces criticism for being 7-foot-3 and playing like a guard. He is averaging 24.0 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 3.5 blocked shots, and has made 55 3-pointers in 17 appearances this season.
Both San Antonio and Phoenix are 2-1 in NBA Cup West Group B play. The Oklahoma City Thunder are also 2-1 and face the struggling Utah Jazz (0-3) on Tuesday.
The Spurs will win the group with a victory over the Suns. Phoenix can win the group if they defeat San Antonio and Oklahoma City loses.
Phoenix has won two of its last three games following a five-game losing streak.
The Suns recorded a 113-105 home win over the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, led by Devin Booker’s 27 points. Kevin Durant added 21 points, and Tyus Jones contributed 19 points and nine assists, making 7 of 9 shots, including 4 of 5 from beyond the arc.
Phoenix prevailed despite the absences of guard Bradley Beal (left calf strain) and center Jusuf Nurkic (thigh contusion), thanks to solid defense and contributions from their bench.
The Suns announced Monday that Nurkic will be out against the Spurs and will be re-evaluated in a week.
As for Beal, Phoenix coach Mike Budenholzer said he had a good day of practice on Monday. Beal’s status will likely be confirmed on Tuesday.
The Spurs went 3-1 against Phoenix last season after the Suns had won the previous nine matchups.
