Victor Wembanyama didn't shy away from the responsibility. After the Spurs' loss to the Knicks in Game 2 of the NBA Finals in San Antonio, the Frenchman took responsibility for his disappointing finish: a turnover in the final seconds, followed by a missed game-winning shot at the buzzer. New York won 105-104 and now leads the series 2-0.
"I clearly messed up."
"I clearly messed up." Wembanyama acknowledged his mistake after a crucial play that proved very costly for the Spurs. Tied in the final seconds, the French forward attempted a quick pass after a rebound. His pass to Stephon Castle ended up behind his teammate. Jalen Brunson recovered the ball, Wembanyama fouled, and the Knicks' point guard sank the free throw that gave New York the game-winning lead with 9,5 seconds remaining.
The last shot was for him
On the next possession, the Spurs had another chance to win the game. Wembanyama took responsibility with a mid-range shot over Mitchell Robinson. The ball went out. San Antonio lost by one point at home, despite having managed to rally in the fourth quarter.
Two faces in the same match
Wembanyama led the Spurs in scoring with 29 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 4 blocks. He shot 11-for-21 from the field, including 2-for-6 from three-point range, and also committed 4 turnovers. His second-half performance sparked San Antonio, but his final two plays proved more decisive than the rest of his game.
The Knicks strike twice in San Antonio
New York won the first two games of this Finals series on the Spurs' home court. Karl-Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 21 points and 13 rebounds. Jalen Brunson finished with 20 points despite a difficult night shooting. Mikal Bridges added 20 points, while OG Anunoby scored 17.
The Spurs were chasing the game
San Antonio trailed for much of the game before mounting a comeback in the fourth quarter. The Spurs erased a 14-point deficit and gave themselves a real chance to even the series. De'Aaron Fox scored 20 points, Devin Vassell added 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, and Stephon Castle finished with 14 points. But the game ultimately hinged on a single poorly executed possession.
New York two wins away from the title
With this 105-104 victory, the Knicks return to New York with a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals. Game 3 will be played at Madison Square Garden. The Spurs, meanwhile, have no margin for error: they must win on the road to prevent New York from taking a near-total lead in the title race.
