Victor Wembanyama gives New York their flowers before NBA Finals matchup

In media availability ahead of Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Spurs star Victor Wembanyama showered respect on the New York Knicks. The Knicks have been on a tear this postseason, winning 11 straight games in their path to the NBA Finals. Wembanyama was asked how he felt about the Knicks having faced them three times this season.

“It’s a great team of experienced guys who are not here by chance, but by relentless effort over the years,” Wembanyama said. “They’re right where they are supposed to be, in my opinion. All of them are going to be super hungry in their own way.”

The Spurs had a unique experience for a Western Conference team, being able to face the eventual Eastern Conference champion Knicks three times in the regular season before meeting them in the NBA Finals. In the NBA Cup, Wembanyama was returning from an early-season injury but stepped up to the task in the matchup.

Playing 25 minutes and coming off the bench, Wembanyama had the offense of the game with 18 points and two 3-pointers, along with six rebounds, one steal, and one block. His play, however, wasn’t enough to stop the Knicks from ultimately emerging victorious in the NBA Cup championship, winning 124-113. The Spurs now look to avenge themselves and keep the same level of defensive intensity that they showcased against two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Dylan Harper spoke about the task of guarding Jalen Brunson after their successful defensive game plan against Alexander.

“Yeah, I think they’re two great players, obviously MVP and one that’s a superstar. I feel like the game plan in ways are the same, but they’re also different because they’re two completely different players. I feel like Jalen Brunson, when he gets in the paint, his footwork is elite and is among the best. I feel like just adjusting to things like that. But at the end of the day, I feel like we have great defenders that I feel like will want to take that challenge and go and meet it.”

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