Victor Wembanyama Comments on Pace Amid Spurs' Loss to Lakers
Victor Wembanyama experienced a challenging night as the San Antonio Spurs narrowly lost 118-116 to the Los Angeles Lakers. After a strong start to the season, the Spurs’ center acknowledged adjustments in opposing teams’ defenses that have made the game feel faster and tougher.
Wembanyama on Defensive Pressure
Speaking after the Spurs’ second consecutive defeat, Wembanyama explained how teams have changed their defensive strategies to specifically counter him.
"Personally, I haven't seen this kind of defense from teams. So we need to adapt as a collective. In the Phoenix game, it was the case as well. We're learning."
He emphasized that the frequent double-teams from the Lakers disrupted his rhythm.
"Mostly, it was the doubling. They probably walked in shootaround through all our situations because it seemed like they were very ready. It felt like they let me catch the ball, but they were ready to double to rotate after that."
Performance and Game Highlights
- Wembanyama scored 19 points on 5-of-14 shooting.
- He collected eight rebounds but committed five turnovers in 33 minutes.
- The Spurs trailed 113-112 when Wembanyama fouled out with under two minutes remaining.
- San Antonio had a chance to tie with one second left after Julian Champagnie drew a foul but missed both free throws, securing the Lakers' victory.
- This was the second time in seven games that Wembanyama has fouled out, outpacing his total fouls from the previous two seasons combined.
Author’s Summary
Wembanyama faces intensified defensive tactics forcing adaptation, as his Spurs narrowly lost to the Lakers amid continued struggles with fouls and turnovers.