By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Following a disappointing loss to the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, Victor Wembanyama chose to highlight the developmental lessons learned from the defeat. Despite a strong start from the San Antonio Spurs, the Knicks rallied to secure a victory, improving their 2025-26 NBA Regular Season record to 39-22.
In a postgame press conference, the 22-year-old French center acknowledged the relentless momentum of the veteran New York squad. “We can take example by them. They just need one spark to get going, and then you can’t stop them,” Wembanyama noted. He emphasized that facing such high-caliber competition is vital for the growth of his young roster, stating, “I think it’s good for us to see this kind of adversity. We want to play the best teams, and this is a top playoff team, experienced. They know what it’s like, and they gave us a good showing.”
The loss snapped an impressive 11-game winning streak for the Spurs, bringing their record to 43-17. On an individual level, Wembanyama delivered a characteristically versatile performance, finishing with 25 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks. However, the Knicks’ defensive pressure proved effective, forcing the center into seven turnovers.
The matchup also featured a significant European presence on the winning side. French Mohamed Diawara contributed a quick 14 points, while British starter OG Anunoby added 12. Germany’s Ariel Hukporti and Poland’s Jeremy Sochan saw limited action, contributing two and one points, respectively. French Pacome Dadiet was absent, as he was on assignment with the team’s G League affiliate in Westchester.