Victor Wembanyama: Public Enemy No. 1 in New York
Spurs player Victor Wembanyama has quickly become one of the most disliked figures in New York, especially after his controversial performance during the Knicks’ first NBA Finals home game in nearly three decades.
The San Antonio center’s shove of Knicks captain Jalen Brunson during Game 3 went viral, sparking outrage among fans. The incident, clearly visible to everyone except the referees, led to an outburst of anger, with even Manhattan’s district attorney joking about the need for a jury trial to determine Wembanyama’s culpability.
“It’s obvious to anyone that Wemby crossed a line and committed a flagrant foul,” said District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
Fans expressed concern about how the 7-foot-5 player, nicknamed “The Alien,” could potentially access the upscale Gramercy Park—an area that requires a key for entry.
Video footage showed Wembanyama sitting in the park, sketching a statue of Edwin Booth, the actor known as the younger brother of infamous figure John Wilkes Booth.
“I can’t believe the way he treats his opponents. He fouled Brunson yesterday, and nothing happened!” complained Joey Amado, a long-time Knicks fan, as the sting of the loss settled in.
Despite the anger, the Knicks hold a 2-1 lead in the series as they prepare for another game at Madison Square Garden.
During Game 3, Knicks coach Mike Brown’s decisions on the officiating, which saw the Spurs awarded more free throws, added to fans’ frustration. “It’s not personal, but it is personal. We have a mission,” said Knicks supporter Fidel Maldonado.
Gabriel Ramos, 31, echoed the sentiment, noting Wembanyama’s style of play left a lot to be desired. Others in the crowd labeled him the “villain” of the matchup as Mario Mendez of Queens said, “New York loves its villains. They just add to the drama.”
Younger fans joined the chorus of anger, with 16-year-old Dylan DeMuro expressing his frustration in front of his father. “Damn it, Wenby,” he muttered, mirroring the chants heard during the game.
Even away fans seemed uncomfortable with Wembanyama’s actions against Brunson. “It didn’t look good. I hope he’s not one of those players,” said Sala, a Spurs supporter waiting for autographs.
In his postgame remarks, Wembanyama appeared to embrace the role of the “bad guy,” asserting he wasn’t as polarizing as some previous athletes in New York. “I’m nowhere near Trae Young’s level,” he said with a grin, referencing the Hawks player who faced harsh chants from Knicks fans in the past.
As the Spurs left their hotel for the game, they were met with loud boos, with Wembanyama’s actions especially criticized. New Yorkers have been vocal about their displeasure, even questioning how he gained access to the exclusive park, suggesting an accomplice may have helped him enter.
“That criminal should never have been allowed in here,” lamented regular park-goer John Little.
As the Knicks’ playoff journey continues, tensions remain high in the city. An employee at the NBA Store even took the opportunity to warn a customer wearing a Wembanyama jersey, “This is New York. This isn’t your time.”
