Despite MVP candidate Victor Wembanyama leaving the game late in the first half with a rib injury, the Philadelphia 76ers fell to the San Antonio Spurs 115-102 in a crucial loss that could get in the way of the Sixers’ push for the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference.

The Spurs were led by a balanced attack which included 19 points from Steph Castle, 17 from Victor Wembanyama (all in the first half), and 17 from Dylan Harper off the bench. The Spurs shot 11-32 from 3-point range and committed just nine turnovers on the night.

Joel Embiid had 34 points and 12 rebounds in a losing effort, but the Sixers were let down by Paul George, who had just five points after the first quarter, and Tyrese Maxey, who finished with just 15 points on 6-16 shooting from the field.

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Joel Embiid points to Daryl Morey when asked why he didn't play basketball Wednesday night against the Wizards. The PHLY Sixers crew shares their thoughts.

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The Detroit Pistons, who improved to 8-2 since star guard Cade Cunningham went down with an injury, used a 15-4 run to take a commanding lead at the half, then blew the game wide open in the third on their way to an easy 116-93 win in Philadelphia.

The Pistons dominated the possession battle against the Sixers, with Ausar Thompson and Jalen Duren combining for seven offensive rebounds. Seven players scored in double figures for the Pistons, led by former Sixer Tobias Harris, who finished with 19 points on 7-13 shooting. With the win the Pistons clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

Paul George continued his strong play, with 20 points on 7-14 shooting to go along with five rebounds and four assists. Tyrese Maxey added 23 and VJ Edgecombe 19 in a losing effort. As is customary, Joel Embiid did not play in the back-to-back.

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