Wembanyama’s Ejection Sparks Discussion

San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson spoke about Victor Wembanyama’s recent ejection during the team’s Game 4 loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This incident took place on Sunday night.

Wembanyama swung his elbow in the second quarter, hitting Timberwolves center Naz Reid in the face, leading to his ejection—this was the first of Wembanyama’s career.

Johnson expressed mixed feelings about the situation. He mentioned he was “glad” Wembanyama was trying to assert himself but was concerned about the physical play he faces on the court. “You have to protect yourself on some level,” Johnson remarked. He pointed out that Wembanyama is often subjected to aggressive tactics by opposing players. “Every time you play anywhere on the floor, people are trying to impose their physicality on you,” he added. He didn’t want to sound like he was complaining but emphasized that Wembanyama needs protection; otherwise, he risks having to fend for himself, which can lead to unfortunate moments like this.

He further elaborated, “It’s becoming tiresome that he has to deal with these situations while maturing as a player. I’m glad he took action, but not in an aggressive way like punching Reid. If he doesn’t defend himself, he might have to escalate things, which I find quite troubling.”

The ejection stemmed from an incident where Wembanyama was surrounded by Reid and Jaden McDaniels after grabbing an offensive rebound. During the tussle, McDaniels tugged on Wembanyama’s left arm, prompting him to swing his right arm down and unintentionally strike Reid in the neck. This resulted in Wembanyama receiving flagrant 2 fouls, automatically leading to his ejection.

Johnson dismissed any speculation about Wembanyama facing suspension for Game 5, asserting, “There was no intention whatsoever. I think that’s ridiculous.”

With this loss, the series is now tied at 2-2.