Victor Wembanyama spoke emotionally following the San Antonio Spurs’ 124-113 loss to the New York Knicks in Tuesday’s NBA Cup final at T-Mobile Arena. “Sorry, just I… I lost somebody today,” Wembanyama began, referring to the recent passing of his grandmother Marie Christine.
Despite the personal loss, Wembanyama reflected on the team’s growth. “A game that counts but doesn’t… I guess it’s the best practice for important games,” he said.
The Spurs had controlled much of the first three quarters before New York’s decisive 13-1 run late in the third flipped the game. Wembanyama acknowledged the value of such moments. “Our focus is already on the playoffs and that’s going to be the biggest time of the year. It’s good that we got this experience today,” he added.
The 7-foot-4 forward contributed 18 points in the loss, but San Antonio struggled to match New York’s physicality, particularly inside. Rebounding proved decisive as the Knicks dominated 59-42 and scored 56 points in the paint. Rookie Dylan Harper led the bench with 21 points, while De’Aaron Fox added 16.
Meanwhile, the Knicks celebrated their first NBA Cup banner in franchise history, fueled by OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson, who combined for 53 points. The tournament win also rewarded each player on a standard contract with $318,560, highlighting the stakes of the high-profile event.
