Victor Wembanyama Reflects on Fast-Paced Game and Defensive Adjustments
After a strong start to the season, Victor Wembanyama experienced a challenging game as the San Antonio Spurs fell 118-116 to the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night.
Wembanyama Comments on Defensive Tactics
Following the Spurs' second loss in a row, Wembanyama explained that the game "feels fast right now" partly because opposing teams have adapted their defensive strategies to focus on 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."
He noted the significant increase in double-teams from the Lakers, which disrupted his usual rhythm.
"Mostly, it was the doubling," he added. "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 Outcome
- Wembanyama scored 19 points on 5-of-14 shooting and grabbed eight rebounds
- He committed five turnovers and fouled out with less than two minutes left
- The Spurs trailed 113-112 when he fouled out
- Julian Champagnie missed two free throws with one second remaining, securing the Lakers' victory
- This was Wembanyama's second foul-out in the first seven games, exceeding his total from the previous two seasons combined
The game highlighted the adjustments opponents are making to contain Wembanyama’s impact, requiring San Antonio to evolve their collective approach.
Author's Summary
Wembanyama faces tougher defenses this season, with teams increasingly focusing on him through double-teams, forcing the Spurs to adapt quickly in a faster-paced game.