Sandro Mamukelashvili Breaks NBA Record in 19 Minutes

Sandro Mamukelashvili Makes NBA History with Record-Breaking Performance for Spurs

SAN ANTONIO, USA — March 22, 2025

In a breathtaking NBA showdown on Thursday night, San Antonio Spurs forward Sandro Mamukelashvili delivered a historic performance, rewriting the league's record books and leading his team to a 120–105 victory over the New York Knicks.

Mamukelashvili posted 34 points in just 19 minutes, hitting an astonishing 13-of-14 shots (92.9%) from the field. With this feat, he became the first player in NBA history to score 34 points in under 20 minutes, a milestone never before achieved in the league’s history.

A Record-Breaking Night

The Georgian international wasted no time making an impact. In just eight minutes of first-half play, Mamukelashvili tallied 13 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and added an assist—sparking a dominant early lead for the Spurs, who stretched to a 28-point advantage by halftime.

His momentum carried into the second half, where he maintained an exceptional shooting rhythm, missing only one of his seven three-point attempts. But it was in the final quarter that Mamukelashvili truly dazzled, racking up 21 of his total 34 points, proving decisive in sealing the Spurs’ victory.

By the final buzzer, Mamukelashvili had etched his name into NBA lore—not only for the sheer volume of points but for doing so with unprecedented efficiency and in record time. He joins an elite group of players to have scored 30 or more points in fewer than 20 minutes, including Jaylen Brown (33), Kevin Love (32), and Kevin Durant (30).

Spurs Overcome Injuries, Shine as a Unit

Despite missing key players due to injuries—most notably Victor Wembanyama, who is out for the season with a right shoulder injury, and De’Aaron Fox, sidelined following surgery on his left finger—the Spurs rose to the occasion with a cohesive and resilient team effort.

Rookie standout Stephon Castle added 22 points, showcasing poise and leadership on the floor. Veteran Chris Paul contributed 12 points along with nine assists, steering the offense with his trademark precision. Jeremy Sochan also returned to the starting lineup, chipping in 10 points and three assists.

This win marks the third victory in the Spurs' last eight games, highlighting the team’s determination and adaptability even in the face of adversity.

Knicks Fall Short Despite Towns' Effort

On the opposing end, Karl-Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 32 points, delivering a strong individual performance. However, his efforts were not enough to counter the surging Spurs. OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges each contributed 14 points, but struggled to generate momentum during the pivotal second quarter, where San Antonio outscored New York 38–23.

Though the Knicks mounted a spirited comeback with a 29–16 edge in the third quarter, they couldn’t sustain the push in the final stretch. Defensive lapses and missed opportunities allowed the Spurs to regain full control.

Mitchell Robinson, recently returned from left ankle surgery, played in his ninth game of the season, scoring 13 points on 5-of-6 shooting in 17 minutes off the bench—showing flashes of his impact when fully fit.

A Memorable Highlight

A standout moment came late in the first half when Devin Vassell nailed a deep three-pointer with 2:37 remaining, capping off a 30–7 scoring run that extended the Spurs' lead to 61–35. It was a sequence that encapsulated the team’s dominance and energy throughout the contest.

This performance will undoubtedly go down as a memorable chapter in the Spurs’ 2025 campaign, especially for Mamukelashvili, whose brilliance on the court offered a glimmer of hope and excitement for fans amid a season marred by injuries.

???? Key Statistics:

• Sandro Mamukelashvili: 34 pts (13/14 FG), 19 mins — NBA record: most points scored in under 20 minutes

• Stephon Castle: 22 pts

• Chris Paul: 12 pts, 9 ast

• Jeremy Sochan: 10 pts, 3 ast

• Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): 32 pts

• OG Anunoby & Mikal Bridges: 14 pts each

• Mitchell Robinson: 13 pts, 5/6 FG, 17 mins