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Victor Wembanyama’s aggression on the court was once again called into question as the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks played Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden.
During the first half, Knicks All-Star guard Jalen Brunson was trying to protect Wembanyama near the free throw line when the 7-foot-4 center put his hand on the back of Brunson’s head and pushed him to the court.
However, Wembanyama was never called for the foul and play continued with the Knicks in possession.
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Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks drives against Dylan Harper and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs in the third quarter of Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 8, 2026 in New York City. (Al Bello/Getty Images)
Brunson immediately got in Wembanyama’s face and the Frenchman appeared to smile before the point guard got back to business.
The incident was similar to one that occurred in Game 2’s win for the Knicks on the road when Brunson’s backup, Jose Alvarado, went to tie Wembanyama. Alvarado, who is comparable in stature to Brunson, was wrapped up by Wembanyama and thrown away from the play.
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Once again, no bad call was made.
Spurs are known for their physicality, but many felt Wemby should have been called for fouls in those instances.
Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks shoots a three-pointer over Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs during the second quarter of Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026. (Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
San Antonio started this game red hot and had an 11 point lead after the first quarter, 33-22. But these Knicks have consistently shown their ability to come back regardless of the deficit.
After a second quarter, the Knicks exited the locker room with a seven-point halftime lead.
Brunson was a major reason why that was the case, going 5-of-11 from the field for 15 points with three assists and one rebound.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson reacts as San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama looks on during the second quarter of Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 8, 2026 in New York. (Vincent Carchietta/Imagn Images)
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As for Wembanyama, he was an efficient 6-of-10 from the field for 15 points of his own while grabbing four rebounds and dishing out three assists.
The Spurs are trying to avoid a brutal 3-0 deficit in the best-of-seven series, while the Knicks hope they can keep the momentum going in the second half for a chance at a sweep in their own building Wednesday night in Game 4.
