SPORTS

Spurs Host Trail Blazers in First-Round Playoff Opener

PUBLISHED Apr 18, 2026, 4:52 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Spurs, finishing the regular season 62-20 as the No. 2 seed, host the seventh-seeded Portland Trail Blazers this Sunday in the opening game of their Western Conference first-round playoff series. The matchup followed the Play-In Tournament and represents San Antonio’s first home postseason action since 2018-19. This week the teams are weighing health and rotation decisions: Victor Wembanyama, 22, figures centrally after missing earlier meetings, and Spurs coaching staff said he could return in Game 4; Portland will rely on Jerami Grant in Lillard’s absence. Fans and arena staff completed playoff preparations at Frost Bank Center ahead of Game 1.

By Sidra | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Sept. 26, 2020 — Jerami Grant last appeared in an NBA playoff game in the Bubble.
April 8, 2026 — Spurs beat the Trail Blazers 112-101 in San Antonio during the regular season.
April 10, 2026 — Jerami Grant spoke about his playoff return prior to Portland clinching a spot.
Play-In Tournament Tuesday night — Spurs were matched with the Portland Trail Blazers for Round 1.
Sunday (opening game) — San Antonio hosts Portland to begin the first-round series.

News Intelligence

The Spurs' return to home playoff action is a big deal for local fans and the San Antonio community. It's a chance to rally behind your team and enjoy the excitement of the postseason. If you're a fan, check the Frost Bank Center's safety protocols before heading to the game.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The San Antonio Spurs organization, arena vendors, local businesses, and broadcasters benefited from hosting playoff games through increased attendance, concession sales, media exposure, and regional economic activity tied to postseason events.

Who Impacted

The Portland Trail Blazers faced disadvantages from key injuries, including the absence of Damian Lillard, which limited their immediate competitiveness and placed greater pressure on remaining players and staff to compensate during the first-round series.