Spurs Vs Lakers Live Updates: NBA Cup Quarterfinal Action And Key Moments

The Spurs vs Lakers NBA Cup quarterfinal delivered fast-paced action and high-intensity drama as both Western Conference contenders battled for a semifinal spot.

The showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday, Dec. 10, delivered high-intensity basketball as both Western Conference teams continued their strong starts to the 2025-26 NBA season.

With Luka Dončić returning after the birth of his second child and LeBron James leading the charge, the Lakers entered this NBA Cup quarterfinal with added momentum.

Meanwhile, the Spurs, despite missing Victor Wembanyama due to a lingering calf strain, arrived prepared to push the pace and challenge L.A. on their home court at Crypto.com Arena.

Game Overview: Spurs Lead At Halftime

End Of Q2: Spurs 70, Lakers 58

The second quarter saw San Antonio take control with efficient offense and aggressive transition play.

Their trio of young guards — De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper — continuously attacked the paint and sparked fast-break opportunities.

At one point, the Spurs stretched their advantage to 18 points, the largest lead of the game.

The Lakers eventually tightened their interior defense, contesting more shots and slowing the Spurs’ early momentum.

However, Los Angeles’ focus drifted at times due to frustration with officiating, which San Antonio capitalized on by pushing the tempo even harder.

Luka Dončić led all scorers with 24 points on 8-of-17 shooting, while LeBron James added 12 points, including a highlight-reel dunk over Spurs center Luke Kornet.

San Antonio finished the half shooting an impressive 10-of-20 from beyond the arc.

First Quarter Recap

End Of Q1: Spurs 39, Lakers 30

After allowing early points in the paint, the Spurs tightened their low-post defense and completely shifted the rhythm of the game.

Backup forward Keldon Johnson made a huge impact in limited minutes, scoring 13 points and hitting all three of his 3-point attempts.

De’Aaron Fox contributed with 8 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists as San Antonio set the pace.

For Los Angeles, Dončić posted 11 points in the opening period, but the difference came from turnovers. The Spurs scored 7 points off Laker turnovers, while the Lakers generated none in return.

Early Game Highlights

With Wembanyama still sidelined, the Lakers targeted the paint early, scoring 12 of their first 15 points in the lane.

San Antonio used drop coverage in pick-and-roll situations, giving Los Angeles room to attack off the dribble.

Midway through the opening quarter, L.A. held a 15-11 lead before the Spurs stormed back.

Starting Lineups

Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James
Rui Hachimura
Deandre Ayton
Austin Reaves
Luka Dončić

San Antonio Spurs

De’Aaron Fox
Stephon Castle
Devin Vassell
Harrison Barnes
Luke Kornet

Game Details: When And How To Watch

Date: Dec. 10
Time: 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT)
Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
TV: None
Streaming: Amazon Prime Video (national broadcast)

Court Update: Lakers Skip NBA Cup Alternate Floor

The Lakers chose not to use the yellow NBA Cup alternate court for this quarterfinal.

The decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” following concerns about slipping, especially after Dončić experienced traction issues during a Nov. 25 win over the Clippers.

The Spurs’ fast-paced offense and sharp shooting helped them control the first half, despite the Lakers’ strong individual performances from Luka Dončić and LeBron James.

With San Antonio playing with confidence even without Victor Wembanyama, and the Lakers relying heavily on their stars, the remainder of the quarterfinal promises a tense finish.

Both teams are fighting not just for a win, but for a place in the NBA Cup semifinals, setting the stage for an intense second half.

FAQs

Why is Victor Wembanyama not playing in the Spurs vs. Lakers quarterfinal?

Wembanyama is still recovering from a left calf strain and has missed 11 games. Although he returned to practice, he was ruled out for this matchup.

How can fans watch the Spurs vs. Lakers NBA Cup game?

The game is streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video nationwide. There is no TV broadcast for this quarterfinal.