Victor Wembanyama Comments on Fast Pace Amid Spurs' Loss to Lakers
Following a strong start to the season, Victor Wembanyama experienced a tough game in the San Antonio Spurs' 118-116 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night. He explained that the pace of the game “feels fast right now,” largely because opposing teams have adjusted their defensive strategies specifically to contain him.
“Personally, I haven't seen this kind of defense from teams,” Wembanyama said. “So we need to adapt as a collective. In the Phoenix game, it was the case as well. We're learning.”
Defensive Adjustments Against Wembanyama
Wembanyama highlighted the frequent double-teams from the Lakers as a significant challenge during the match.
“Mostly, it was the doubling,” he said. “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 Details
- Wembanyama scored 19 points on 5-of-14 shooting.
- He grabbed eight rebounds and committed five turnovers in 33 minutes.
- He fouled out with less than two minutes left while the Spurs trailed 113-112.
San Antonio had a chance to tie the game in the final second when Julian Champagnie was fouled by Jake LaRavia, but Champagnie missed both free throws, securing the Lakers' victory.
This was the second time in the opening seven games of the season that Wembanyama fouled out, exceeding his total from the previous two seasons combined.
Author’s Summary
Victor Wembanyama is facing tougher defenses that speed up the game, requiring the Spurs to adjust as they navigate a challenging start to the season.