Victor Wembanyama Faces Criticism After Spurs' NBA Finals Loss
The San Antonio Spurs were defeated by the New York Knicks in five games in the 2026 NBA Finals. Victor Wembanyama, the 22‑year‑old French forward, averaged 26 points per game but shot only 42 % from the field and 27 % from three‑point range, prompting scrutiny of his performance.
Former NBA player and analyst Kendrick Perkins called Wembanyama "soft" in crucial moments, while Knicks guard Jalen Brunson publicly expressed frustration, shouting a profanity‑filled insult toward him during the Knicks' celebration. Former NCAA champion Jay Williams suggested Wembanyama focus on developing a post‑up move this offseason, praising his talent but noting the need for a signature interior play. The criticism came amid broader discussion of the young star’s adjustment to playoff pressure and the Spurs' unexpected run to the Finals after a long rebuilding period.
Despite the loss, Wembanyama’s impact on the Spurs’ resurgence was highlighted, as the team rose from a 13th‑place finish the previous season to a league‑best record before falling short of the championship.