SAN ANTONIO — Victor Wembanyama has reached his limit.
In a recent game, the talented San Antonio player confronted Ivica Zubac after the Los Angeles center forcefully pushed him to the court during the Clippers’ 128-116 win over the Spurs on Wednesday night. Wembanyama’s frustration with the perceived lack of respect and calls from the referees surged late in the third quarter and continued into his postgame remarks.
“It’s not about Zubac,” Wembanyama explained. “It’s just frustration, regardless of who it was.”
When asked if he felt he receives fair treatment from the officials, Wembanyama succinctly replied, “No.”
Zubac’s shove was merely the latest instance of physical play that Wembanyama has endured throughout the match. Earlier in the third quarter, Zubac had expressed his frustration toward the officials for not calling a foul on Harrison Barnes when he blocked a layup attempt. The tension escalated when Wembanyama blocked Zubac’s dunk attempt with 4:49 left in the third quarter, which also went uncalled.
After witnessing Barnes hit a 3-pointer, cutting the Clippers’ lead to 85-78, Zubac reacted defensively, rushing into the paint and delivering a hard hip check and elbow to Wembanyama’s back, causing him to fall to the baseline.
Wembanyama quickly composed himself and rushed at Zubac, but was restrained by members of the Spurs coaching staff and players who joined the court when Clippers coach Ty Lue called a timeout following Barnes’ shot.
Zubac reflected on the incident, saying, “I reacted a little. I was angry because I thought I got fouled on the previous play. I saw Wemby crashing; I knew I had to block him out. I pushed him a little harder than I should have. I let my emotions get the better of me, but I apologized. That’s not how I want to compete on the court.”
Zubac ended the game with 21 points and 22 rebounds, while Wembanyama recorded 23 points and 12 rebounds. Despite the shove from Zubac, no fouls were called, and the officials opted not to issue a technical foul against Wembanyama. After a brief conversation, the play was not reviewed.
The lack of calls frustrated both Wembanyama and the Spurs. “I believe there were some situations that should have been addressed earlier,” noted Mitch Johnson, the team’s acting head coach. “It’s likely surprising that he hasn’t responded like that before. He undergoes significant contact, and if those officiating the game aren’t stepping up, he will have to find ways to protect himself.”
Wembanyama discussed the challenges he faces as opponents try to contain his extraordinary skills, like shooting 3-pointers and dribbling, by pushing against his 235-pound frame.
“It’s tough to confront because sometimes it feels unjust,” Wembanyama said. “But, of course, I talk with the staff, and there are steps I need to take to support myself. Primarily, it’s about getting stronger and not giving up on shots, but also understanding I need to communicate with the officials. However, it feels frustrating to think that I should have to navigate these politics. I’m here to play basketball.”
