The San Antonio Spurs had nothing but redemption on their mind heading into Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. Victor Wembanyama, in particular, had to make up for the disastrous end he had to Game 2, which he gave away after turning the ball over and missing a game-winner attempt at the buzzer. And that's what Wembanyama and the Spurs did, holding on for a 115-111 victory in Game 3 to stay alive in the series.
Wembanyama had one of the best games of his career, especially considering the stakes. He put up 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists to go along with three blocks, and he shot the ball efficiently, making 11 of his 18 field-goal attempts. The Spurs needed a herculean effort from their best player, and that's what they got.
For the Spurs, the difference in their late-game execution in Games 2 and 3 was simple, as Wembanyama succinctly put in his postgame interview with ABC's Lisa Salters.
“Less mistakes, more control… It's the little things,” Wembanyama said.
"Less mistakes, more control… It's the little things."
Victor Wembanyama on the difference maker for their win in Game 3 🗣️
(via @espn)pic.twitter.com/Zn9SuVJiMN
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 9, 2026
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Wembanyama had to learn about late-game composure the hard way when he threw the ball off the back of teammate Stephon Castle in the turnover that broke the Spurs' back in Game 2.
San Antonio made huge shots when they needed them the most; Castle drilled a ridiculously difficult three with the shot clock winding down, De'Aaron Fox hit a midrange jumper to keep the Knicks at bay, and Castle nailed two free throws to put the game to bed in the dying embers.
This young Spurs team has had to grow up in a trial by fire, and while the ending to the first two games of the 2026 NBA Finals was rough, they seem to never be fazed. It's a testament to this team's togetherness and resiliency that losing the first two games of the series in that devastating of a manner did not shake their confidence whatsoever.
The San Antonio Spurs had nothing but redemption on their mind heading into Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. Victor Wembanyama, in particular, had to make up for the disastrous end he had to Game 2, which he gave away after turning the ball over and missing a game-winner attempt at the buzzer.