Spurs HC remains absolute about timeout decision in loss to T'Wolves

1 hour ago 4

San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson has absolutely no regret whatsoever about what unfolded just before Julian Champagnie's buzzer-beating 3-point shot attempt.

The Minnesota Timberwolves flipped the game on its head in the final two minutes against the San Antonio Spurs with their 7-0 decisive run. The Spurs' lead evaporated as they missed putting the perimeter shots in the basket on the other end. On the other hand, Mike Conley, Naz Reid and Terrence Shannon Jr. dropped their shots successfully.

However, the Spurs tightened their defense in the last minute and got one final possession. But instead of taking a timeout, they hoped to take advantage of Minnesota's unorganized defense in the chaotic transition, even if that means asking Champagnie to shoot the game-winner.

Champagnie's buzzer-beating 3-point shot attempt was off as the Timberwolves won Game 1, 104-102.

MORE: Despite Victor Wembanyama's playoff record, Spurs lose thriller to Wolves

Spurs HC Mitch Johnson reveals reason behind not taking timeout for final possession

After the loss, questions were raised about Mitch Johnson's decision not to take the timeout, where he could have drawn up a play for a potential game-winner. With no regret, Johnson said they didn't want to take a timeout because this would have allowed the Timberwolves to make proper plans for defense.

"On the last play, we just got a rebound, and it felt like they weren't organized and that there was enough time for us to push the ball and get a look, but we didn't push it right away," Johnson explained. "So it got to that do-or-die moment where you have to decide whether to call a timeout or not. I thought Dylan did a good job pushing the ball and kicking it ahead to Julian. Julian had a fly-by and got a three-pointer in rhythm. I had no problem with the shot, I thought it was a great shot. I hope he shoots it every time."

Mitch Johnson on not taking a timeout on the last possession:

"It felt like they weren't organized and there was enough time for us to push the ball and get a look ... Julian got a fly-by, got a 3-pointer in rhythm. I had no problem with the shot."pic.twitter.com/Kx6bjMKEz6

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) May 5, 2026

It seems Johnson's bet failed as his man couldn't put the 3-ball in. But let's not forget if the ball went in, we would probably be celebrating this decision of Johnson.