Victor Wembanyama walk‑off sparks NBA Finals handshake debate

Victor Wembanyama left the court immediately after the San Antonio Spurs fell to the New York Knicks in Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals, prompting a debate over post‑game handshakes. Former NBA guard Jay Williams defended Wembanyama, saying there is no rule requiring players to shake hands and that the expectation is rooted in lower‑level sports. Wembanyama, 22, later addressed the media and said, “Appreciate y’all. See y’all… never,” before walking away.

The Knicks secured their first championship in 53 years with a 94‑90 victory, while the Spurs, who had dominated much of the series, struggled in fourth‑quarter moments despite Wembanyama’s 26.0 points, 11.2 rebounds and 3.6 blocks per game. The handshake controversy is likely to fade as analysts focus on the Spurs’ promising young core and the Knicks’ championship run.