Victor Wembanyama delivered a stunning performance on his NBA play-off debut as the San Antonio Spurs beat the Portland Trail Blazers 111-98.
Wembanyama leads from the front
The French star, nominated for the MVP award, scored a game-high 35 points, including 21 in the first half, to guide Spurs to a strong start in the best-of-seven series.
Wembanyama said sticking to their season-long approach helped handle the pressure of the opening game.
Thunder dominate Suns
Defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder made a statement with a crushing 119-84 win over the Phoenix Suns.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 25 points, seven assists and four rebounds in a one-sided contest.
Celtics cruise past 76ers
The Boston Celtics also impressed, beating the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91.
Jayson Tatum recorded 25 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, while Jaylen Brown added 26 points.
Magic stun top-seeded Pistons
In a surprise result, the Orlando Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons 112-101.
Paolo Banchero starred with 23 points, nine rebounds and four assists, overshadowing Cade Cunningham’s 39-point effort.
The result extended the Pistons’ long-standing home play-off struggles, as they continue to search for their first post-season home win since 2008.
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