Victor Wembanyama’s potential game-winning fade-away 3-pointer at the buzzer veered off course, leading to a missed opportunity for the San Antonio Spurs to secure a rare victory against a depleted Memphis Grizzlies team. Despite the 99-97 defeat, the highly touted player pondered over what he could have done differently. However, his reflections didn’t revolve around the last-second shot.
In an interview with ClutchPoints, Wembanyama expressed regret over not sealing the victory earlier, referencing the sizable lead his team had built, nearly 20 points ahead. Despite achieving his seventh 30-plus point game of the season, the third this month, he couldn’t shake off the disappointment of his missed chances.
Spurs post-game
Asked Vic if he made a concerted effort at times to take on more of the offensive load in the 99-97 L to Memphis…
“I didn’t put the nail in the coffin…”
Taking accountability after he led the team with 31 pts
Complete answer ⬇️#Spurs #GoSpursGo #PorVida pic.twitter.com/DlQBvnAi9a
— Hector Ledesma (@HectorLedesmaTV) March 23, 2024
Victor Wembanyama speaks out on lost opportunity
Failing to firmly secure victory, Wembanyama highlighted his team’s substantial 17-point lead during the second quarter. “I distinctly recall a moment in the first half when we were comfortably ahead,” Wemby recalled, reflecting on the missed opportunity. “I realized the importance of maintaining our intensity regardless of the opponent. I wanted to approach the game with the same ferocity as if we were facing top players like Joel Embiid or Giannis Antetokounmpo. I reacted then, but I’ve learned from those mistakes and won’t repeat them.”
As the game progressed, Wemby visibly increased his offensive aggression, especially in the second half when Memphis not only closed the gap but surged ahead. “I aimed to take charge and contribute as much as possible to the team,” he remarked when questioned about that pivotal period. “We needed a decisive response because their defensive efforts weren’t up to par.”
When pressed on whether he indeed ramped up his aggression, Wembanyama responded, “I can’t recall the specific moments, but it’s possible. I’ll need to review the game to be sure.”
Victor Wembanyama’s final sequence
On Friday, the remarkable 20-year-old athlete showcased his continued impressive performance, adding 31 more points to his tally in what has been an outstanding individual season. Additionally, he recorded 16 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks against the Grizzlies.
