Chris Russo criticizes Victor Wembanyama for pushing Jalen Brunson in a ‘dirty’ way

Chris Russo Critiques Victor Wembanyama’s Actions

Chris Russo didn’t hold back in his criticism of Victor Wembanyama on Wednesday’s episode of “First Take.” The “Mad Dog” took issue with Wembanyama’s description of Jalen Brunson as a “dirty player” after Monday night’s Game 3 of the NBA Finals.

“This was insane,” Russo remarked. “I really don’t like this. Brunson wasn’t in the wrong at all; he skillfully avoided getting hit with a technical foul.”

Russo’s remarks came after Wembanyama was not penalized for a play where he hit Brunson in the back of the head with just under five minutes left in the first quarter. Brunson had been trying to set a screen on the 7-foot-4 giant when Wembanyama turned and pushed him down.

The Knicks reacted immediately, protesting the lack of a foul call. Despite this, no foul was assessed.

The league ultimately decided against labeling Wembanyama’s action a flagrant foul. This decision came even after Monty McCutchen, the NBA’s senior vice president for referee development, told ESPN’s NBA Today the next day that a regular foul should have been called.

Russo added, “If you’re the Spurs, you need to be cautious. They’ve had some success on the road, but winning consistently away from home is still a challenge. It’ll take some grit for Wembanyama to lead them through.” He expressed concern about the potential backlash, saying, “Let’s not stir the pot.”

He further mentioned the Knicks’ frustration, as they rewatched the highlights and felt the NBA should have acknowledged the shove as a flagrant foul. “We’re giving the Knicks too much credit here, and that’s not what San Antonio needs,” Russo concluded.

Wembanyama, who was ejected in a previous round against the Timberwolves for being elbowed by Naz Reid, had his postseason marred by a couple of contentious moments. According to the rules, accumulating four bad points could lead to a suspension.

The Spurs triumphed over the Knicks 115-111 in Game 3 and have the chance to even the series at two games apiece during their upcoming match at Madison Square Garden.