Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs have put a stop to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 16-game winning streak.
The Thunder had been dominating since opening day, going 24-1. They were clear favourites to win the NBA Cup.
But with Wembanyama back from injury on Saturday, San Antonio managed to pull off a surprise win in Las Vegas.
The Frenchman scored 22 points off the bench in the 111-109 victory and had some interesting things to say afterwards.
Victor Wembanyama’s ‘ethical basketball’ remark stirs conversation
The Thunder have faced plenty of criticism this season for what some are calling an ‘unethical’ style of play.
Mark Daigneault’s side have been getting away with physical defence without the usual foul calls, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander seems to pick up fouls from minimal contact.
Some believe it is just smart basketball and that the Thunder are taking advantage of what works, but others feel it gives them an unfair edge.
After San Antonio’s NBA Cup win, Wembanyama added to the debate by suggesting his team plays a more ethical brand of basketball.
“I’m just glad to be part of something that’s growing to be so beautiful – pure and ethical basketball,” he said in his post-game press conference.
Wemby did not mention the Thunder or SGA by name, but given his awareness of social media discussions, it seemed intentional. The storylines around this match-up will only get louder as the season continues.
Steve Nash breaks down what people do not like about the Thunder’s style
Steve Nash spoke before the game about why the Oklahoma City Thunder have been labelled ‘unethical’ in how they play.
Speaking to Prime Video, the former NBA star said that OKC have ‘mastered the rules’ by pushing referees to their limits on both sides of the court.
“They’ve mastered the rules. They hack away, in the most positive and respectful way.
“They’re ball hawks; they make plays on the ball. They get away with some; some of it is just incredible hands.
“And then offensively, they do the same thing. They rip and go. Shai is a great foul-creator. They’re really efficient at playing the referees.”
Dirk Nowitzki added that because officials cannot call every foul, OKC can keep up their physical approach all game long.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
