The San Antonio Spurs failed to hold off the New York Knicks down the stretch, as they absorbed a tough loss, 105-95, in Game 1 of the NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center on Wednesday.
Victor Wembanyama gave the Spurs a one-point lead, 95-94, with 2:16 remaining in the fourth quarter after draining two free throws. The Knicks, however, unleashed an 11-0 run to complete the gutsy victory and extend their winning streak to 12 games.
Wembanyama had 26 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks. He struggled from the field, shooting just 6-of-21, including 2-of-9 from long distance. He also had a game-high six turnovers. In comparison, the Knicks only had eight turnovers.
The 22-year-old center, however, remained defiant despite getting upset in Game 1.
“We've been down in a series before. Never in the finals, obviously. But I'm not kicking myself about anything, really. I mean, I'm not worried the slightest,” said Wembanyama in the postgame conference.
"We've been down in a series before, never in the Finals, obviously, but I'm not kicking myself about anything really. I mean, I'm not worried the slightest"
Victor Wembanyama speaks on the Game 1 loss and not losing faith 🗣️
(via @SportsCenter) pic.twitter.com/aAYOcpn2Hk
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 4, 2026
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The two-time All-Star will have to figure out the active defense of Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and OG Anunoby if he wants to give the Spurs a fighting chance.
Wembanyama will continue to face stiff opposition in the best-of-seven series, with the Knicks leveling up their already stingy defense. The Spurs were held below 100 points for the first time in the playoffs.
San Antonio only went 36% from the field, including 11-of-43 from three-point range. Julian Champagnie had a hot start from beyond the arc, sinking five three-pointers. He, however, only scored one point in the second half.
Game 2 is on Friday.
The San Antonio Spurs failed to hold off the New York Knicks down the stretch, as they absorbed a tough loss, 105-95, in Game 1 of the NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center on Wednesday. Victor Wembanyama gave the Spurs a one-point lead, 95-94, with 2:16 remaining in the fourth quarter after draining two free throws.