San Antonio Spurs star center Victor Wembanyama was one of several players who called out New York Knicks fans for their behavior following the team’s 115-111 loss to the Spurs in Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals.
After the game, several videos circulated on the internet of Knicks fans perpetrating acts of physical violence against Spurs fans. Additionally, over 20 Knicks fans were initially arrested for clashing with police officers after the event.
Victor Wembanyama Labels Behavior of Knicks Fans as ‘Unacceptable’
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 23: New York Knicks fans cheer for Game Two of the Eastern Conference Third Round NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at a watch party hosted by the Knicks at Summerstage in Central Park on May 23, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Angelina Katsanis/Getty Images)
Wembanyama didn’t see the videos of violence initially, but when he was informed of them, he quickly condemned the acts and called for respect among fans.
“My thoughts of course [are] that we can’t forget it’s a game,” Wembanyama said. “We’re just playing a game out there. I am all for passion, but [with] the respect of each other. It’s unacceptable.”
Spurs forward Julian Champagnie echoed this sentiment.
“It’s just not necessary,” Champagnie said. “No one should be coming to the game and getting assaulted like that. It’s not what we’re promoting. It’s not what we’re playing for.”
Players on both sides of the table spoke up to denounce the behavior as Knicks star center Karl-Anthony Towns shared a similar message for fans who were taking things too far.
“The game is built off of respect and passion,” Towns said. “We want everyone to respect each other. We want everyone to enjoy basketball at its purest state. It’s the NBA Finals. There’s no better place to watch basketball. Leave the physicality to everyone on the court.”
This story will be updated.
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