Victor Wembanyama is lighting up the NBA Finals, but not everyone is cheering. Former ESPN personality David Jacoby has made it crystal clear that he's no fan of the San Antonio Spurs phenom — in fact, he says he flat-out hates him.
Jacoby's Explosive Rant
During a recent episode of The Ringer podcast, Jacoby let loose on Wembanyama, calling him a “try-hard” and admitting his disdain goes beyond basketball. “My blood is still a little bit boiling about this Brunson thing, because I’ve seen it a million times,” Jacoby said, referencing a controversial shove on Knicks guard Jalen Brunson during Game 3 of the NBA Finals. “I cannot stand this guy. I hate his outfits. I hate his face. I hate his hair. I hate everything about him. He’s such a try-hard.”
Jacoby’s outburst stems from a growing frustration with Wembanyama’s on-court antics, which have drawn scrutiny from fans and former players alike. The Spurs star has been accused of dirty play after elbowing Timberwolves center Naz Reid in the throat during the second round and shoving Brunson in the Finals — an incident that is now under NBA investigation.
Wembanyama's Dominance Continues
Despite the criticism, the 7-foot-4 rookie has been unstoppable in the Finals, averaging 29 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. He silenced a hostile Madison Square Garden crowd on Monday with a 32-point performance, leading the Spurs to a crucial victory. After the game, Wembanyama acknowledged the mental toll of the postseason. “The playoffs, it’s like a whirlwind. It’s hard to put your head out of the water,” he said. “Sometimes, I don’t even have time to watch the games back right away. I need some time off to let my brain cool down, recover.”
Fans Push Back on Jacoby's Take
NBA fans were quick to defend Wembanyama, calling Jacoby’s rant over-the-top and forced. “Is this not an incredible odd stance from someone in a big media company that also has votes for MVP/All NBA?” one fan asked on social media. Another added, “Wemby hate so forced cuz he legit does all the things people supposedly want from the NBA.” A third simply called the outburst “pathetic.”
Jacoby’s criticism echoes a broader narrative that has followed Wembanyama this postseason. Former NBA star Stephon Marbury has also accused him of being a dirty player, and fans have demanded consequences for the Brunson shove. But Wembanyama’s supporters argue that his intensity and competitive fire are exactly what the league needs.
What's Next for Wembanyama
As the Spurs look to take a commanding 3-1 lead in Game 4 on Wednesday night, Wembanyama remains focused on the task at hand. With his sister Eve stealing the spotlight on a magazine cover during the Finals, the Wembanyama family is having quite the moment. Whether or not Jacoby’s hatred lingers, the French star’s star power is only rising.
One thing is certain: Wembanyama’s polarizing presence will keep the NBA world talking for years to come.
