Victor Wembanyama is not panicking after the San Antonio Spurs dropped Game 1 of the NBA Finals to the New York Knicks.
Despite losing 105-95 on Wednesday night, the Spurs forward made it clear that he hopes his team will respond in Game 2.
“I was bad tonight, it’s nothing more than that,” Wembanyama said.
The 22-year-old still finished with 26 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks in his NBA Finals debut. Wembanyama became the fourth player since blocks became an official stat in 1974 to record at least 26 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks in his Finals debut, joining Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon and Elvin Hayes.
Wembanyama felt his impact wasn’t enough, especially after New York erased 14 points in the second half before closing the game on an 11-0 run in the final two minutes.
“It was fast,” said Wembanyama. “I think we let that one go.”
The Knicks controlled several key possessions, shutting San Antonio out of the paint and producing 23 second-chance points. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson believes his star center needs to get closer to the basket early in the game.
“I agree with the coach,” said Wembanyama. “It’s the same: Every team patrols differently. I’ll make that clear.”
Despite the disappointing finish, there was little concern inside the Spurs locker room.
“We’re excited about Game 2 because we know we can play a lot better, and this is not a game we’re used to,” forward Devin Vassell said, according to ESPN.
Most importantly, Wemby does not believe that major changes are necessary before the next game.
“It’s not like I’m thinking about anything. It’s like I have to play normally, not well. [in Game 2]. It is what it is [about] doing the right things enough. If we play bad, if I play bad, that’s when we shoot ourselves in the foot. That’s why I’m not worried. We will be much better. I will be much better.”
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