Wembanyama’s On-Court Conduct Questioned During NBA Finals

Victor Wembanyama’s aggressive approach on the court faced scrutiny again as the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks clashed in Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden.

In the first half, Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ All-Star guard, attempted to guard Wembanyama near the free throw line. The 7-foot-4 center placed his hand on Brunson’s head and pushed him to the floor. Despite this, no foul was called, and the Knicks continued their possession.

Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks works against Dylan Harper and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter in Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026. (Al Bello/Getty Images)

Brunson confronted Wembanyama, who appeared to be smiling before resuming play. A similar incident occurred in Game 2 where Brunson’s backup, Jose Alvarado, was wrapped up and thrown aside by Wembanyama, yet again no foul was called.

The Spurs have a reputation for tough play, but many feel Wembanyama should have been penalized in these situations.

Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks shoots a three-point basket over Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs during the second quarter of Game Three in the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026. (Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

San Antonio started strong, leading by 11 points after the first quarter with a score of 33-22. Nevertheless, the Knicks have consistently managed to recover from such deficits.

Thanks to a strong second quarter, the Knicks entered halftime with a seven-point advantage.

Brunson was instrumental in this turnaround, scoring 15 points on 5-of-11 shooting, along with three assists and one rebound.

Meanwhile, Wembanyama had 15 points, shooting 6-of-10, and recorded four rebounds with three assists.

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 in New York on June 8, 2026. (Vincent Carchietta/Imagn Images)

The Spurs are striving to prevent a daunting 3-0 series deficit in the best-of-seven series. The Knicks aim to maintain momentum and possibly achieve a series sweep with another home victory on Wednesday night in Game 4.