Spurs Host Trail Blazers in First-Round Playoff Opener
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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.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
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.
Why This Matters to You
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.
The Bottom Line
The Spurs' strong season and the return of key players like Victor Wembanyama could make this a thrilling series. But with Jerami Grant stepping up for Portland, it's anyone's game. Worth forwarding if you know a basketball fan who loves a good underdog story.
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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.
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.
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Spurs Host Trail Blazers in First-Round Playoff Opener
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