Victor Wembanyama’s aggressive, whistle-friendly performance in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 10 quickly made the French star the focal point of New York’s frustration, souring the Knicks’ first home Finals contest in 27 years.
Throughout the night at Madison Square Garden, the 7-foot-4 forward was accused by spectators of resorting to rough tactics, while several key calls appeared to fall in his favor. The combination prompted loud jeers from the sell-out crowd and sparked social-media chatter branding him “Public Enemy No. 1” in the city.
“He’s the series villain,” one upset Knicks fan shouted as the teams left the floor following the loss that put New York behind in the championship matchup.
The tension surrounding Wembanyama’s play—and the officiating that accompanied it—now sets the tone for a pivotal Game 4, also scheduled at the Garden.
Source: New York Post
