The internet is buzzing, and not in a good way for Victor Wembanyama. A video of the San Antonio Spurs star's controversial play on New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby during Game 4 of the NBA Finals has exploded online, racking up over 1.1 million views on X in just half a day. The clip shows Wembanyama lunging toward Anunoby's right knee, sparking accusations of a dirty move that could have serious consequences.
The Knicks pulled off the largest comeback in Finals history on Wednesday, erasing a 29-point deficit at Madison Square Garden to take a 3-1 series lead. But the celebration was overshadowed by the play, which left fans and analysts questioning Wembanyama's intent. The incident occurred late in the first quarter, and while it's unclear if Wembanyama lost his balance or was trying to rough up the Knicks star, the reaction has been swift and harsh.
“For those of you who don’t think Wemby is dirty, explain this without saying it's AI,” WFAN's Craig Carton posted, echoing the sentiment of many. The video has sparked a heated debate, with some defending the rookie sensation and others calling him out. “Wemby is a generational talent who is going to win 2-3+ titles in his career with good health,” one fan wrote. “He’s a deer on skates out there with his legs and elbows. Fix it now, man. You’re too good for this.”
Others were less forgiving. “I’ll give Wemby the benefit of the doubt here, BUT it does seem like this man can’t control or regulate his emotions well at all,” a second fan commented. “Trying to sell an intent to injure as a push is some awful business,” another added. “Wemby is a monster.” The controversy comes on the heels of Knicks fans throwing an egg at Wembanyama after the game, adding to the tension.
The NBA is already investigating Wembanyama's actions, and he's now one flagrant foul away from an automatic suspension after picking up a flagrant in Game 4. While the Spurs are on the brink of elimination, the potential suspension could be a moot point, but the scrutiny is real. The incident also follows an earlier shove on Jalen Brunson, which has put the league on alert.
Wembanyama's sister, Eve, has been in the spotlight too, but this moment is all about the on-court drama. The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson's heroics, now have a chance to close out the series on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET. But the lingering question is whether Wembanyama's reputation will take a hit. As Knicks guard Jose Alvarado warned Wembanyama, "That'll be the last one."
This isn't the first time Wembanyama has faced criticism for his physical play. Earlier in the series, former ESPN host David Jacoby unleashed on him, saying, "I hate everything about him." The viral video has only amplified those voices, and the NBA Finals are now as much about the game as they are about the controversy.
With the Knicks up 3-1, the pressure is on the Spurs to mount a comeback of their own. But for now, the basketball world is divided over one play that has everyone talking. Whether it was a dirty move or a clumsy accident, the 1 million views say it all.
