NBA Finals Countdown: Spurs Advance Behind Wembanyama; Knicks Rely on Sacrifice; Thunder Look Ahead
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San Antonio — Victor Wembanyama said the emotion of reaching the NBA Finals hit him immediately after the San Antonio Spurs edged the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals.
“Winning the Larry O’Brien, it’s a childhood dream,” the 22-year-old center told reporters. “Having a tangible chance at it, realizing a dream.”
The newly minted Western Conference finals MVP explained that learning to channel passion, anger and excitement into productivity has been central to his rapid rise. Now four victories separate him and the Spurs from a championship.
Knicks Sign On for Sacrifice
Inside the New York Knicks locker room, every player and coach has put a signature on a “Standard of a Champion” contract that prioritizes team goals over individual statistics, according to the New York Post.
The pact has shaped the postseason run: Karl-Anthony Towns has altered his offensive role, Jordan Clarkson has focused on intangibles, and Mitchell Robinson has taken variable minutes without complaint.
“We’re willing to sacrifice numbers and stats for the betterment of the team,” guard Josh Hart said after the club clinched its first Finals berth since 1999.
Thunder Exit, Praise Spurs
Oklahoma City’s season ended one win short of the Finals, but MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lauded the opponent that eliminated his squad.
“They’re young, they’re talented, well-coached. They have the makeup, for sure,” he said of San Antonio after posting 35 points and nine assists in Game 7.
Looking toward the offseason, the guard made it clear roster decisions will rest with executive vice president Sam Presti. “I will give zero input. I will let Sam Presti, the greatest GM ever, do his job,” he stated.
Source: Hoops Wire
