Wembanyama out, Spurs edge Magic 114-112 behind Fox’s 31

Without Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs showed remarkable resilience on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, stealing a 114-112 victory on the road at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida — a hard-fought regular season win built on De’Aaron Fox’s brilliance and a collective effort that masked the absence of the French phenom.

Fox carries an undermanned Spurs squad on the road

San Antonio came into Orlando shorthanded, with Wembanyama sidelined and the Magic riding a wave of momentum at home. The first half was competitive and physical, with both teams trading punches. De’Aaron Fox quickly established himself as the engine for the Spurs, attacking the Orlando defense relentlessly. Dylan Harper contributed alongside him, adding energy off the bench while the Magic leaned on Franz Wagner — 25 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists — to keep pace. Jalen Suggs was equally dangerous, pouring in 24 points on 10-of-20 shooting, giving Orlando a dual scoring threat that kept the game in the balance throughout the first half.

The third quarter saw the Magic attempt to assert control, with Suggs and Wagner combining to push the Orlando lead. But San Antonio refused to fold, with Devin Vassell chipping in 15 points and 6 rebounds, and Julian Champagnie proving invaluable from deep — shooting 4-of-7 from three for 14 points. Keldon Johnson added 13 points to keep the Spurs within striking distance heading into the final frame.

The fourth quarter delivered the drama. Fox, who logged 29 minutes and finished with a game-high 31 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists on 11-of-20 shooting, took over down the stretch. Despite Desmond Bane’s steady hand — 14 points and 6 assists for Orlando — the Magic could not hold on, and San Antonio escaped with a two-point victory.

Fox’s clutch 31-point masterclass seals the deal

The defining moment of the night belonged to De’Aaron Fox, whose relentless aggression in the fourth quarter proved impossible to contain. His ability to get to the free-throw line — converting 6-of-9 attempts — and knock down contested mid-range shots broke Orlando’s back when it mattered most. Harper’s two steals and Champagnie’s shooting reliability from the corner were the supporting acts in what became a genuine team victory.

Wembanyama absent: Spurs’ depth answers the call

Victor Wembanyama’s absence

The night confirmed what many suspected: the n°1 pick of the 2023 draft remains the irreplaceable centerpiece of San Antonio’s ambitions. Without the French pivot, the Spurs had no shot-blocker of consequence and lacked their primary offensive focal point. That they still secured the 114-112 win speaks to the depth being assembled around him — but also underlines how transformative his presence is when healthy.

A collective response

Five Spurs scored in double figures, a testament to the team’s depth and trust in each other. Fox’s acquisition is already paying dividends, while Harper continues to develop at a rapid pace. Vassell’s 15-point, 6-rebound outing and Champagnie’s efficient shooting suggest San Antonio can compete even in adverse circumstances.

Looking ahead

The Spurs return home next, with all eyes on the timeline for Victor Wembanyama’s return. Each game played without the phenom is a test of character — and on this December night in Orlando, San Antonio passed it. When the two-time scoring threat is back on the floor, this team’s ceiling rises dramatically, making the second half of the regular season one to watch closely.

• De’Aaron Fox: 31 pts, 5 reb, 5 ast (11/20 FG)
• Dylan Harper: 16 pts, 5 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl
• Devin Vassell: 15 pts, 6 reb
• Julian Champagnie: 14 pts, 4/7 from three
• Keldon Johnson: 13 pts, 4 reb