Spurs' 4th quarter closeout sends a crystal clear message to the league

You would have never guessed that the Spurs were playing on the second night of a back-to-back against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. The squad looked hungry and ferocious, refusing to take their foot off the gas during their 114-112 victory.

Still, the victory wasn't easy against a feisty Orlando team. The Magic made things difficult for the Spurs, forcing 19 turnovers, but it wasn't enough to secure the victory. In the hard-fought match, San Antonio willed themselves to win and displayed a key element that will be important as we move forward.

The Spurs know how to win close games

In the back-and-forth battle, the game came down to the last few minutes. The Spurs lost their lead as the minutes trickled away, and they let the Magic get within striking distance. With the game on the line and the Magic continuing to make clutch plays, it was time for the Spurs stars to show up—and they did.

Completing their 10th clutch victory in 13 such situations, the Spurs have shown they know how to close out a game. The rally's leader was De'Aaron Fox. The Swipa knocked down multiple ice-cold threes and made numerous game-saving plays to help the team close out the game. The former Clutch Player of the Year is showing exactly why he won that award.

But it wasn't just Fox. Luke Kornet made the true game-saving play as he blocked Franz Wagner's attempt at a buzzer-beater. Devin Vassell also had a clutch block of his own in the game's final minutes to help seal the win. These plays are a testament to the Spurs' drive to win games and their ability to show up when it matters most.

Dylan Harper is invaluable to the Spurs success

While De'Aaron Fox was the hero of the night, it was impossible to miss the impact of rookie Dylan Harper. The youngster put together one of his best all-around performances of the year in the win, showing he is essential to this Spurs squad.

The Rutgers alum scored 16 points on the night, and he displayed his incredible shooting stroke. Harper scored all around the map with several impressive finishes at the basket, mid-range pull-ups, and one timely deep three. Dylan was born to score the basketball.

Harper also made a collection of huge winning plays. He picked up five rebounds, five assists, and two blocks on the night. He showed excellent court awareness and unmatched hustle, proving that he is already someone you can't take off the court.

From top to bottom, the Spurs played a supreme match and once again have highlighted their resilience without their two stars. As the matches go by, the scarier the Spurs become. The pieces are coming together just in time for Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle to return. You'd better watch out for San Antonio.