The San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers meet in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on April 24, 2026, with the series tied 1-1.
Why it matters: Game 3 is a key matchup as both teams look to gain momentum in the best-of-seven series. The absence of Spurs star Victor Wembanyama could significantly impact the game's outcome.
The series is tied 1-1 after the Spurs won Game 1 111-98 and the Trail Blazers rallied to win Game 2 106-103.
Wembanyama, who averaged 25 points during the regular season, is out due to concussion protocol.
The Blazers are looking to capitalize on Wembanyama's absence to take control of the series.
Driving the news: The Spurs and Blazers split the first two games, setting the stage for a competitive Game 3 at Moda Center in Portland.
In Game 2, the Blazers overcame a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter, led by Scoot Henderson's 31 points.
Wembanyama exited early in Game 2, which shifted the momentum in favor of Portland.
The Blazers' victory marked their first postseason win since May 29, 2021, against the Denver Nuggets.
State of play: The absence of Wembanyama creates uncertainty for the Spurs as they head into Game 3.
Wembanyama's 35-point debut in Game 1 showcased his potential impact, making his absence felt even more acutely.
The Spurs finished the regular season with a 62-20 record, securing the second seed in the Western Conference.
Portland, with a regular-season record of 42-40, enters Game 3 healthy and ready to exploit the Spurs’ vulnerabilities.
The big picture: This series marks a notable return to playoff basketball for both teams, each aiming to establish dominance.
The Blazers are hosting their first playoff game since June 3, 2021, creating a charged atmosphere for fans.
Portland's comeback in Game 2 demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Historically, the Spurs have had the upper hand in playoff matchups against the Blazers, winning three of the four previous series.
What they're saying: Players and coaches are emphasizing the importance of adjustments and maintaining focus.
"We expect our fans to be loud, we expect them to be there for us," said Deni Avdija, highlighting the role of home-court advantage.
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich acknowledged the challenge of playing without Wembanyama but expressed confidence in his team's depth.
"We need to find a way to step up collectively," Popovich said, noting the need for other players to fill the gap left by Wembanyama.
By the numbers: Key statistics highlight the stakes heading into Game 3.
The Spurs scored an average of 119.8 points per game during the regular season, slightly above the Blazers' 115.5.
Portland outscored the Spurs 24-8 in the final minutes of Game 2, demonstrating their late-game execution.
Betting odds for Game 3 favor the Spurs slightly, with a moneyline of -120 compared to the Blazers' +100.
What's next: Game 3 is scheduled for April 24 at 10:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast exclusively on Prime Video.
Game 4 will follow on April 26 at 12:30 p.m. ET, also at Moda Center.
If necessary, Game 5 will be played in San Antonio on April 28.
The series will continue with Game 6 on April 30 and a potential Game 7 on May 2.